A graduate of Pennsylvania State University, Hayley Ninnis holds a master of arts in leadership development. In addition to practicing and teaching yoga, Hayley Ninnis is a master hula hooper.
Not just a fun children’s activity, hula hooping grew in popularity in the United States in the 1950s and has enjoyed a renaissance in the years since. Perhaps surprising to some, the activity can burn more than 400 calories an hour, an amount similar to walking on a treadmill. Using a weighted hoop or adding in arm movements can further increase caloric burn.
Hula hooping provides effective abdominal workout, helping to tone upper and lower abdominals and obliques, as well as stabilizing the core to prevent back pain. The activity’s rhythmic rocking movements can contribute to tension relief in the low back, thus realigning and improving flexibility in the spine. Practiced for at least 15 minutes, hula hooping also offers cardiovascular benefits.
Beyond the physical, hula hooping can bring a variety of mental health benefits. Its repetitive, rhythmic nature can feel meditative, while the concentration it requires enables hula hoopers to stay anchored in the present moment.
