Leveling Up Your Hoop Game: Intermediate Hooping with Polypro Hoops

Are you ready to take your hula hooping skills to the next level? Welcome to the world of polypro hooping! As an intermediate hooper, switching to a polypro hoop can revolutionize your practice and open up a whole new realm of possibilities (no more tired arms!) Let's explore how you can elevate your hoop dance and become part of the vibrant circus NZ community.

Choosing the Right Polypro Hoop

Transitioning from a beginner hoop to a polypro hoop is an exciting step in your hooping journey. Polypro hoops are lighter and more responsive, allowing for faster movements and intricate tricks. Here's a quick guide to choosing the right size:

- Dress sizes 4-6: 32" diameter

- Dress sizes 8-12: 34" diameter

- Sizes 14-16: 36" diameter

- Sizes 16 and up: 38" diameter

Remember, these are general guidelines. Feel free to experiment with different sizes to find what works best for your style and body type. May may well find that as you develop your own individual style of hoop flow you will start to have preferences for the type of hoop you want to use, but most hula hoopers will be able to pick up any kind of hoop and do something impressive! Want to be extra impressive? Try doubles!

Dancing with Your Polypro Hoop

Now that you have your lightweight polypro hoop, it's time to dance! Here are some tips to help you flow with your new hoop:

1. Embrace the lightness: Polypro hoops respond to even the slightest movement, so use gentle, controlled motions.
2. Practice isolation moves: The responsiveness of polypro hoops makes them perfect for intricate isolations and body wraps.
3. Explore off-body hooping: Try tosses, helicopter spins, and other aerial moves that showcase the hoop's lightness.
4. Incorporate dance elements: Let the hoop become an extension of your body as you move and groove- don’t be afraid to move your feet (or your butt!).
5. Experiment with rhythm: Play with different musical beats to inspire varied movements and flows. See if you can incorporate your hoop dance into your existing favourite kinds of dancing (psytrance hooping anyone?)

The Joy of Play and Fitness

As adults, we often forget the importance of play in our lives. Hula hooping with a polypro hoop is an excellent way to infuse fun and playfulness into your fitness routine. It's not just about exercise; it's about rediscovering the joy of movement and self-expression, using music, dance, and props as your vessel.

Polypro hooping provides a full-body workout that can improve coordination, flexibility, and core strength. As you progress in your practice, you'll notice enhanced muscle tone and cardiovascular fitness. Plus, the meditative aspect of flow arts can reduce stress and improve mental well-being- get in the zone!

Joining the Circus NZ Community

One of my personal favourite and most rewarding aspects of intermediate hooping is becoming part of the vibrant circus NZ community. New Zealand has a thriving circus and flow arts scene, with regular meetups, workshops, and performances happening across the country throughout the year (check out another recent blog post listing some of my favourite annual flow-arts friendly events).

Engaging with fellow hoopers can inspire you to try new moves, push your boundaries, and even perform in public. Many cities host regular "flow jams" where you can practice with others, share tips, and make new friends who share your passion for hooping.

Embracing Adult Playfulness

Hula hooping reminds us that play isn't just for kids. As adults, we need play and creativity in our lives to stay balanced and joyful. Your polypro hoop can be a tool for self-expression, stress relief, and pure fun.

Don't be afraid to let loose and get silly with your hoop. Try dancing to different music genres, create your own moves, or incorporate costumes into your practice (sparkles mandatory). The more you embrace the playful side of hooping, the more enjoyment and fulfillment you'll get from your practice.

Intermediate polypro hooping is an exciting journey that combines fitness, artistry, and community. As you continue to grow in your practice, remember to stay curious, keep experimenting, and most importantly, have fun! Whether you're hooping for exercise, to be part of the circus NZ scene, or simply for the joy of it, your polypro hoop is your ticket to a world of creativity and play.

Happy hooping, and may your flow be ever graceful!

[photo credit:  Ehimetalor Akhere Unuabona]