Mini Hooping: Getting stronger

Mini Hooping: Getting stronger

Aug 10

Independently spinning hoops, one in each hand, is not my strongest hooping skill. In fact, I stink.

One of the reasons I need so much practice is because my arms are not as strong as I would like them to be when I’m practicing during my Hoop classes. In my day-to-day life, I’m strong enough, but when it comes to arm hooping, I need more arm power and endurance. So I’ve taken to the gym.

After hooping, I strength train my entire body. The training usually leaves my body sore and tired, and not in the mood to hoop. (that’s why I hoop first) In addition to the heavy training, I decided to try daily arm strength training to increase my stamina and endurance.

My solution:  tiny kettle bells.

I found the kettle bells by accident. I was in a 5 Below store looking for school supplies and there they were. Picking them up, the bells felt like a heavy hoop in my hand because the handle is circular like a hoop. The bells are five inches tall and can be used to easily mimic the motion of a hoop. Since the size and weight are small, I don’t worry about hurting my joints.

This is how I use them: In the morning and night, when I’m on the phone, talking with my husband or watching TV, I use the kettle bells in the same motions I use twin or mini hoops only slower — much slower. I do not swing them around like a hoop, but instead try to mimic the shoulder rotation and arm positions I use during arm hooping. I also try to avoid momentum because I want to work the muscles, not just swing the bells.

I stretch before and after I use them. When I begin to lift or push the bells, I use open hands because a closed grip won’t force my muscles to work, but instead allow my hands to do some of the work. During or in between the hoop motions, I use the bells just like weights, working my shoulder, arms, back and chest.

Since the weights are so light (pictured are 3 lbs each) and small (5 inches high), I’m strengthening, but not bulking up. Best of all, are the results: I can hoop longer and with less fatigue, which allows me to practice longer. The bells cost $5.