Ditch The Gym! Hula Hooping Is The Workout Everyone’s Talking About | Lifestyle News

Last Updated:July 01, 2025, 09:23 IST

Hula hooping is a simple, energising exercise that strengthens your core and keeps you active, all while adding a dose of entertainment to your day

Staying healthy isn’t just about eating well, exercise is equally important. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to stay fit, hula hooping might be just what you need. This simple plastic ring exercise doesn’t just entertain, it also strengthens core muscles and keeps you energised.

According to a 2021 study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, people who did hula hooping regularly for six weeks saw a notable reduction in waist circumference and an improvement in core strength, results even more effective than walking.

What Is Hula Hooping?

Celebrity nutritionist Pooja Makhija explains that hula hooping involves rotating a hoop around your waist, hips, or other body parts. To begin, choose either a light or weighted hoop. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, place the hoop around your waist, and move your hips in a circular motion to keep it spinning. Start with 5 to 10 minutes a day, gradually increasing your duration as you build stamina.

Health Benefits Of Hula Hooping

Experts say one of the best things about hula hooping is that it can be done easily at home and no gym needed. It’s a full-body workout that helps tone the waist and strengthen core muscles. The activity combines cardio with strength training, aiding in fat loss, improving flexibility, and reducing stress levels. Because it’s fun, it doesn’t feel like a chore, making it ideal for both children and adults. You can even practise hooping with your hands to work different muscles.

Important Precautions

While hula hooping is generally safe, some precautions are necessary. Beginners should start with a larger hoop, which is easier to handle. If you have back pain or an existing injury, consult a doctor before starting. Avoid using too much force in the beginning; instead, build up speed and stamina gradually. Make sure you practise in a spacious area to prevent the hoop from hitting objects, and wear light, comfortable clothes and shoes.

First Published: