Hula Hooping's topics - tribe.net

making aluminum hoops

2008-05-12T00:20:13Z

Hey,

I have seen the link for buying aluminum hoops, but I was wondering if anyone had experience with making their own. Is the tubing found online flexible enough? How do you connect it? Is it cost-effective?

Contrastingly, if you have bought an aluminum hoop, can you tell how they connected it? Is it welded?

Thanks!

-Sandra

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Hoop Move Names

2008-05-11T23:24:29Z

Hello Fellow Hoopers.

I would really like to see hooping achieve a proper status in the world of sport, gymnastics, and who knows maybe even the Olympics one day.

The main problem I see at the moment is that so many people give different names to the same moves. In Ice Skating a triple Lutz is a triple Lutz, and a double Axel is a double axel. Simple.

I suggest we should have set names for set moves.

Obviously if someone invents a new move then it can carry their name, but this should be ratified by a world body of hooping !!!

At least by telling their students the "official" name of the move they are helping to standardise our "sport".

The main problem I see is different people at this stage trying to claim a certain move was invented by them.

One worry at the moment is that if you use a certain name for a move you may be infringing someones copyright on that name. Maybe they have not got copyright on the move itself, but they have on a certain specific name.

There is nothing wrong with someone saying - This move is known worldwide as "The Pizza Toss" but I like to call it "Helicopter".

(Oops, am I allowed to use the name Pizza Toss?) :-)

So how can you tell people that you perform a certain move without using a copyrighted name? The only way I can see is if all moves to date are given "generic" names that can be used by anyone.

I have taken both BodyHoops, and HoopGirl training and I know that Diana Lopez and Christabel Zamor have different names for moves that are basically the same. So I find it confusing knowing which name to use at a time, (much to the Amusement of Diana Lopez at the recent BodyHoops training).

I am now looking to attend HoopGirl's level one training again, and immediately follow it with level two at the end of July this year, so I feel confusion will still reign, for me anyway.

What does everyone else think? Do you think having set names would help? Do you think Hooping can, and should become "standardized". Can hooping become a world class recognized "sport"

I look forward to your replies.

John

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Bending over backwards

2008-05-11T21:50:38Z

Any tips on gaining confidence for bending backwards. I seem to have a fear, although I was once able to do backbends. I have been working on angles quite a bit, and feel wrong that I am most comfortable leaning forward.

posted in Hula Hooping - 10 replies

Applying padding to your hoop

2008-05-11T21:45:45Z

I just started making hoops. I really like the way they feel with water, however I bruise when I use the heavier ones. A lot of people seem to suggest adding padding to your tube. Does anyone have a method for this? I have added the insulation tape (going around the hoop-as you would any other tape, then putting vinyl over it and gaffer on the edges) to some of my lighter hoops, but I don't find this helps with preventing bruising. It does give the hoop better traction though. Should I apply the insulation on only the inside of the hoop?

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Regional hooping tribes

2008-05-11T20:11:18Z

Here's the latest list of the regional hoop tribes on hooping.org! Be sure to add yours to the list if you create a new one!

WEST COAST:
Seattle
http://tribes.tribe.net/seahoopers

Portland, OR
http://pdxhooperz.tribe.net/

SF Bay Area
http://bayareahoopers.tribe.net/

Santa Cruz
http://tribes.tribe.net/santacruzhoopdance

Los Angeles
http://lahoopers.tribe.net/

Orange County
http://ochooping.tribe.net/

EAST COAST:

New England
http://newenglandhoopers.tribe.net/

NYC
http://tribes.tribe.net/nychoops

Washington DC
http://peaceandhoopiness.tribe.net/

Florida
http://tribes.tribe.net/flahoopers

ELSEWHERE:

Detroit
http://tribes.tribe.net/detroithoops

Australia
http://tribes.tribe.net/australianhoopers

Vancouver, BC
http://tribes.tribe.net/vancouverhoopers

posted in Hula Hooping - 84 replies

My First event

2008-05-11T08:01:56Z

Just wanted to share my progress with you all. I think sometimes we under estimate how powerful the Hoop is or maybe should I say as a new comer to the business. I attended a fun day yesterday, where I was given two half an hour slots. Well by the time I started to get the hoops out that was it, I was flooded with kids and some adults I must say who wanted to have a go.

It was very overwhelming and at times I found it hard to contain as the little ones would wonder off with the hoops nearer their mums. When the session had finished they didn't want to put it down. I had mums come back for more also.

The downside for me was that I didn't bring any hoops to sell. I was advised it was a free event geared around fitness and health. The many enquiries I had where kids wanted hoops to take home. It has taught me that next time I'll take x amount with me for people to purchase. However the plus is that I gave out loads of flyers and my contact details so they can contact me.

posted in Hula Hooping - 0 replies

soalar chargers for a PSI hoop?

2008-05-11T03:48:54Z

going to Rothbury and am gonna need a fresh charge 4 days in a row. Has anyone found a solar charger that will put a full charge on my PSI during the day?
My other options would be some sort of car charger (dont know what I'd need for power rating/charge rate) or a booth at the fest that will let you plug stuff in for a fee. I dont really want to leave my hoop in the care of someone else every day tho....
Any help on charging at festivals is appreciated.

Justin

posted in Hula Hooping - 21 replies

hoop dreams

2008-05-11T00:07:35Z

There are times I awaken from a dream of moving with my hoop in new ways that feel like magic. Everything is clicking and all sorts of new horizons are opening. Ahh Yes.

And then I have this recurring dream that every hoop I pick up and try to spin becomes flimsy and just sort of melts in my hands...just like Dali's clocks in the painting "The Persistence of Memory." The flimsy hoops simply wilt and become unresponsive... I had this dream again last night.

Anyone else have this recurring dream?
I wonder what it means?

posted in Hula Hooping - 12 replies

advice on the duck out

2008-05-10T17:13:27Z

a friend of mine tried to show me how to do this.. and i got it so i can duck my head under and rest it on my arm and so i can elbow hoop, but everytime i duck out and have it rest on my shoulder it always just flies off!
i've tried to shurg up and everything.. cant seem to get it..

any videos or advice?
thanks :)

xoxo

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Collection: Specialty Hoops

2008-05-10T16:08:29Z

Specialty Hoops include Fire Hoops, LED Hoops, Cyr Wheels (aka Roux Cyr), Aluminum Hoops, and others.

Collection threads are a resource tool to help make searching for information easier. These are not actual discussion areas, just a gathering place where tribe members will add links to threads with information on the collection topic. Please feel free to revive any of these older thread by posting a reply within that thread, which will move it up to the top of the active threads list.

When adding a new link to a collection thread, please include this information:

Link
Thread Title
Original Poster
Date of Original Post
Number of Replies

.. and then provide a brief description of the content of that thread, so that searchers will know if the thread is likely to contain the information they need.

Thanks for your help!

X.

posted in Hula Hooping - 16 replies

May 2008 Practice Goals

2008-05-09T20:53:32Z

For May, I am practicing pushing up into a pirouette. I want to integrate pirouettes into my hooping but I have to make my feet and legs strong first and work a bit on my balance.

What are you working on for May?

posted in Hula Hooping - 16 replies

HoopPath Workshops in Baltimore 5/31 & 6/1

2008-05-07T23:26:39Z

We're heading up Baltimore ways at the end of this month for a two-day workshop and we could not be more excited to visit this cool city for the first time!

If you are interested, here's a link:

http://www.hooppath.com/cms/category/events/

And feel free to holler at me <ann@hooppath.com> anytime between now & then with any questions. Look forward to meeting some new hooper faces!

posted in Hula Hooping - 0 replies

2 for 1 HoopGirl Training!

2008-05-07T21:53:48Z

Hey everyone,

I'm signed up to receieve HoopGirl training in Santa Barbara on May 30 - June 1 (http://www.hoopgirl.com/index.php?pt=info&id=10&hdr=training). However, I was just recently emailed that I can now bring a buddy along and we'd each pay half of the registration cost. I've been unable to find someone in Madison who would be able to come with me, and I was wondering if you (or someone you know) would be interested in doing this. That's $350 instead of $700!

If you're interested, please send me a PM, and I'll send you the complete details. Thanks so much, I look forward to hearing from you!

Danielle

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Any thoughts on children's hoops???

2008-05-07T19:48:31Z

I have recently gotten a request for children's hoops... and am not sure how what tubing to use and how big it should be. I currently have 100 psi 3/4 inch irrigation tubing and I am not sure if it will work. would greatly appreciate any input. Thank you... ~PeAcE ~

posted in Hula Hooping - 10 replies

Frustrated First Time Hoop Maker....

2008-05-07T15:39:38Z

Hello fellow hoopers!

I just made my first hoop (YAY!) However, I ran into a completely unexpected problem. I've searched past tribe topics for similar issues, but haven't found anything on the topic (which baffles me further.) I though I'd turn to you fabulous people to lend some insight. I'm having a problem getting the right connector to fit in the corresponding tube size.

I did a bunch of research before plunging into hoop making and felt extremely prepared to embark in the adventure. After much searching I was able to find 3/4",160 psi poly tubing. I purchased some 1/2", 100 psi for some experimenting too. I bought the connectors in both sizes (3/4 and 1/2") both in plastic and in metal. My problem came when i tried to insert the 3/4" connector into my 3/4" tubing. First i tried heating the ends with the blow dryer. I held it there for 5 mins and couldn't even image the connector getting close to fitting. I moved on to boiling water. I emerged the ends in boiling water (for an extremely long time) and tried to insert the 3/4" connector to no avail. My husband was also lending a hand and he couldn't come close to fitting the connector in either. Finally, out of frustration, I tried to fit in the 1/2" connector to see if that would work. After some difficult manuvering, we were able to squeeze the 1/2" connector into the 3/4" tubing. I mean, it took some effort to get that 1/2" connector in there.

I've never hear of anyone having such a difficult time getting those connector into the right size tubing (1/2" tube = 1/2" connector, 3/4" tube = 3/4" connector.) But it seemed like an impossible feat to get that 3/4" into that tube end.

The hoop, however, feels great. It feels secure and is perfectly round. It's still cooling, so we'll see how it is in the morning. I hooped with it and its fantastic. But I'm not sure what to do. I wanna make a million more, but don't know if I should proceed using the 1/2" connectors on the 3/4" tubing.

Thoughts?

posted in Hula Hooping - 13 replies

LED vs. PSI

2008-05-06T23:07:07Z

Okay..I know there are posts up about both hoops, but no one has really said which one is the best.

So Which one should I get with my economic stimulus check?!?! ;)

Thanks!

posted in Hula Hooping - 26 replies

Cutting up Fablon (sticky back plastic stuff)

2008-05-02T18:34:41Z

Hello I have found some beautiful shiny and sparkly fablon in Wilkinsons (in the UK) but it is a nightmare to unroll it and slice it into strips with a stanley knife (I am quite an impatient person to be fair and quite dangerous with a stanley knife too) it seem there must be an easy way of slicing into nice rolls while it is still rolled up but the guillotine in the stationers all had guards on them and the man said they wouldn't cut through the plastic either does anyone have any ideas for my simple brain

Thank you very much xxxxxxxxxxxxx

posted in Hula Hooping - 4 replies

taping with mirror tape and other specialty tapes????

2008-05-01T19:07:04Z

can you tape over mirror tape without the bumps and messiness??? Thanks. PeAcE~

posted in Hula Hooping - 13 replies

Vision/Eye issues & Hooping

2008-05-01T10:18:08Z

Hello Family in the Hoop:

I hope this day finds you all well and giving much thanks for the many blessings we share. As the title suggests, my inquiry pertains to all your experiences out there regarding our eyes. The Hoop Path has taught me to 'go blind' while hooping to open up whole new levels of point awareness. In addition to practicing this skill, while we are not blindfolded - the other times we are hooping - what do you hoopers who, let's say, do not have the most perfect vision, do? For instance, I (obviously) wear glasses. Maybe it's because I'm still learning, but sometimes the glasses seem to get in the way of my hooping. Not only do glasses create certain 'blindspots' but they often get in the way of the hoop or my dance - getting 'bumped' in the side of the head with the hoop even slightly make the glasses go flying (scratches - baaaad!). Now, I have tried contacts and they bother my eyes a lot and so I prefer not to wear them at all, plus they get to be too expensive. Breaking my glasses would be expensive too, but I would feel a lot more 'free' in my hoopdance without the glasses. I am near-sided, and so without my glasses everything visually becomes a blur. Blur + hoopdance = a lot MORE dizziness, aside from the already existing dizzy aspects of hoopdance (which is not good for building Gracefulness). Aside from having to fork out the dough to get laser eye surgery, does anyone have any suggestions to brainstorm for me? Much love & Appreciation Tribe!

~Nicki

posted in Hula Hooping - 17 replies

Busted hoops...what to do next...

2008-04-30T18:16:45Z

Howdy,

I busted two hoops the other day while hooping. The tape had already begun to split at the connector seam and the connectors were both exposed when the unfortunate happened, not once but twice, the hoop spun off my body. I'm trying to figure out what to do next? I was thinking about completely re-taping...or just trying to fix the seam, though I sort of tried this unsuccessfully. What do you do when your hoops get busted?

1love,
Gangi Butts

posted in Hula Hooping - 12 replies

Hoop Donations for Africa - Please read!

2008-04-30T17:51:05Z

Okay this might be an odd post...

My hubby and I are leaving for Cape Verde, Africa with the Peace Corps in July. I will be working as a Youth Mobilizer for the next 2+ years and I've been tossing the idea around in my head to bring some hoops with me as a way to break the ice/make a fool of myself/entertain the kids and adults, especially when I'm first learning the languages and trying to integrate into the community. This may later develop into a larger "secondary" project, but for now I was hoping to use hooping (he he) as an ice breaker - I know folks that bring cool stuff like kites tend to become heroes to the kids pretty quick! Lots of them play with old tires and sticks for fun; personally I think that's got nothin' on hoopin' :o)

So having said that...I have neither the time, money or knowledge of how to make collapsable hoops. Time is going to scrambling to pack, learn Portuguese and finish PC paperwork. $$ is going to pay off debt so we can actually GO. And I guess knowledge would fall in with time...

If anyone either has an extra collapsible hoop that they wouldn't mind parting with, or would like to make one to donate, it would be much appreciated!!! I will most likely only be able to bring 2-4 with me to start but will have my family ship me any extras once I get there - PC only allows so much luggage, so they have to be collapsible. Ideally I would bring 2 adult size hoops and 2 kid size hoops, and my Hoop Girl Instruction video lol. Of course I'll be posting pics and video of everyone hooping!

Thanks in advance to any one who can help!

Peace,
Dove

posted in Hula Hooping - 16 replies

non-skill-toy hobbies?

2008-04-30T03:29:49Z

hi all!

I thought it might be interesting to see what other sorts of things we hoopers like to do. I think it will be fun to get to know each other a bit more as individuals (without having to click on every individual member's profile) , and I think it might be interesting to see if any unexpected trends are found among us as a group.

So what OTHER hobbies do you have? Please don't list other skill toys or vaudevillian stuff (poi, stilting, mime, etc) or I'm sure we would all be typing foot-long responses! lol

PS- Xta, if you think it is inappropriate to have a non-hoop discussion in a hoop tribe, feel free to remove! I'm just curious, and want to chat!

posted in Hula Hooping - 50 replies

Neck hooping annoyance...

2008-04-29T12:46:18Z

I've been hooping for a month now. I've gotten to the point of I can chest hoop and even shoulder hoop ( if I twirl enough with the shoulders lol)
The neck hooping is giving me fits though for something that should be fairly simple.. omg
It's likes to wobble and migrate up or down.
No matter what way I try to compensate, try to adjust it..watch what I'm doing.. it still wobbles and wants to migrate down on my shoulder or up to my lip to pop it a good one if I'm not careful.
Ack.. this one is supposed to be easy.
Any tips on this one ? My poor busted lip will thank you for sparing it more hits.

posted in Hula Hooping - 4 replies

New Orleans or Charleston Hoopers

2008-04-29T04:04:04Z

Hi,
I'll be heading your way as Kevin & I drive zig zag across country in June from NYC to SF... If you are out there, let me know.
xo
Halo

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

Gaffer tape?

2008-04-28T22:40:55Z

Is there any way to clean gaffers tape??? I have white and it is getting dirty very quickly. I was wondering if light soap and water would damage it at all. Thanks...

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

how the heck do you SHIP a hoop?

2008-04-28T16:52:02Z

does anyone out there know the secret to shipping a hoop without it costing a fortune? i went today to ship a hoop to my friend's mom, and the quotes i was getting were outrageous. base price for UPS ground was $15 (if the hoop had measured an inch bigger in diameter, it would have been $90... no, i'm not kidding), and they'll charge me an extra $15 for not having a box (i was going to bubble wrap it)... yet a box to fit the hoop would cost $10. the post office and fedex were about the same.

i'm so confused... what's the best way to package one for shipping, and still have it cost around $10-15 total? is that even possible?

posted in Hula Hooping - 39 replies

Happy Birthday Revolva

2008-04-28T01:33:06Z

Raising a glass of wine in your honor!

Happy Birthday Revolva! Wish we could be there to celebrate with you!

Kiss, Hugs, and Badass Hooping!

posted in Hula Hooping - 8 replies

update on new orleans circus scene

2008-04-28T01:27:41Z

I’m new to tribe and I’m trying to get the word out about what’s going on now in New Orleans for Circus Arts. The scene revolves around the Whirly Bones Circus Collective. We have a large studio just outside the french quarter and we offer free skill shares in circus arts and aerial classes five days a week! We offer hooping, acro, conditioning, juggling, yoga and clown lab. For fifteen dollars a month (yes, I said fifteen dollars) members can train and teach in the space. Next month the collective is putting on a showcase which includes acro-balance, aerial, juggling and more. Aurora Aerial is also based out of the space and will be holding auditions for an autumn run of shows on September 1st. There is a new aerial yoga class at Swan River Yoga Shala uptown as well. To learn more, visit our myspace at www.myspace.com/whirlybones or www.myspace.com/ravenhinojosa. Come check out or join our growing circus scene!

posted in Hula Hooping - 3 replies

WOOHOO, my baby is getting a twin....

2008-04-26T14:34:37Z

Euphoria ( my PSI) is getting a twin!!!
Well its gonna be my roommates, but I finally talked him into ordering one. He is gonna get same color combo (elfin/dragonfly) and same size, so there will be twins in the house.
Now I will have 2 to play with (or at least not have to share!!!)

Anybody heading to Rothbury? we have a "Deadwood Hoops" camp and would love it if anybody stops by to say Hi....

posted in Hula Hooping - 0 replies

Secret Lives of Women - Fire Hooper?

2008-04-25T15:45:15Z

Has anyone been watching "Secret Lives of Women" on WE channel? In the intro, they show a fire hooper, but I have been watching the show and seen no such thing. Did they already have one, or do I stay tuned?

posted in Hula Hooping - 7 replies

Hoop spinning (or whatever it's called)

2008-04-25T01:52:19Z

Are there any tutorials out there for spinning the hoops outside the body in poi-fashion? It's a really cool effect and I'd like to try it.

posted in Hula Hooping - 15 replies

Poison PVC!?!

2008-04-24T20:46:58Z

I read today that Sears is moving to phase out pvc in all their products and packaging due to health concerns. Apparently, Target and Walmart have also done this to a lesser extent already. Here's the specific paragraph from the article that concerned me most:

"PVC is a plastic used in building materials, packaging, toys and clothing. The material has come under attack from environmental groups that say it releases chemicals linked to cancer and birth defects."

And here's a link to the article:
http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20071212/us_nm/searsholding_pvc_dc_2

I know we have discussed the safety of certain tapes and the concerns about working with electrical tape but I don't think we've discussed the relative safety of working with pvc tubing. I know I work with it a lot. I just made a ton of hoops for Christmas presents. Does anyone have any information about the safety, or lack thereof, of working with pvc tubing?

posted in Hula Hooping - 11 replies

hooping population

2008-04-24T14:51:58Z

Hi there~
so I just noticed that we've hit 2000 members for this hula hoop tribe. that's doubled in less than a year I think.
wow!

When Baxter and Ann were out visiting Ojai, we were guessing how many hoopers there must be in the world now. At first I guessed
30,000 but then Bax said what about the hoopers that are hooping as a regular practice...at least once weekly. So then I thought...

10,000 hoopers worldwide.? What do you all think? How many hoopers are out there now worldwide hooping at least once a week?

posted in Hula Hooping - 0 replies

LED hoops

2008-04-23T21:47:52Z

Hey Hoopers!
I'm looking into buying a light up hoop and just wanted to hear from a few peeps who already have them. The one I really really want is the psi hoop Dragonfly. It's got a pretty high price on it though. The LED hoops at superhooper are more reasonable, but I don't know if they give the same effect. That effect being the crazy swirly trailing acid trip effect that the psi hoops have. The psi hoop website also advertises that you can get a combo hoop of elfin and dragonfly lights. Anyone have one of those? What is the effect?

Right now I'm thinking that if I'm gonna shell out almost $200-$300 for a hoop, I might as well spend the extra and get the psi. What do you guys think?

posted in Hula Hooping - 43 replies

Which tape for a hoop

2008-04-23T01:30:42Z

Okay, I'm going to take the plunge and try my hand at making my own hoop. I'd love to know what type of tapes those hoop makers out there prefer ... gaffer, electrical, vinyl? I'm mainly talking about the base decoration, I plan to add some metalic tape for prettiness but I am not sure what the basic hoop should be covered in. Gaffer is textured which sounds good to me but it is rather expensive. I assume you wouldn't have to cover the whole thing in it just enough to give it some grip. Yes?

The hoop I have at the moment, from what I can tell, is an electrical/vinyl two color base covered with a 45 degree angle metalic tape which is then striped witha textured tape (I assume gaffer). I like it lots. Any other suggestions?

Thanks,

Leah

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Shipping from USA to Canada??

2008-04-22T16:19:16Z

Hey guys! I finally got my local post office trained to ship hoops around the USA for just under $6. Anyone ever shipped to Canada? Just wondering about how much more it would cost. Thanks guys!

-just a note, my roomate ruined my computer so I have no internet access at home for now. It may be a few days before I get back to this.

posted in Hula Hooping - 5 replies

i lit up for the first time!

2008-04-22T07:18:40Z

this weekend we tried out our very first fire hoop that my wonderful friend made. i still feel all warm and fuzzy from it! i just had to share ;-)

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Conspiration?

2008-04-21T16:37:37Z

I've been hooping for 5 years and I've never tried to make a video. Today, at my dog's B-day, when finally I was going to start one my dog got attacked by 2 dogs. The movie now is like a horror movie with non-stop screaming for a couple of minutes. There's no image, just audio. My poor baby got so hurt. I think it might take a while until I try it again. :((

posted in Hula Hooping - 5 replies

Contacts in Costa Rica?

2008-04-21T01:52:26Z

I'm going to Costa Rica at the end of May and would like to bring some hoops with me to give kids down there. Does anyone have contacts with organizations in Costa Rica that would be good to work with? I haven't started doing any research yet.. thought I'd poll the community first. Thanks!

posted in Hula Hooping - 3 replies

Interesting hoop-tape repair discovery!

2008-04-20T23:03:25Z

I needed to remove some ratty glitter-tape from my hoop - originally planned to re-tape the whole hoop, but another interesting solution presented itself!

First, getting the glitter tape off turned out to be quite a challenge - it shredded and ripped. (Slo-o-o-ow pulling is the best.) When I finally did get it off, I found that most of the glitter had stayed behind, thoroughly stuck to the hoop. In fact, it was way more glittery than the tape had been originally! After considering my options, I first tried smoothing the glitter a bit with very fine sandpaper (something like 400 grit). But it still hurt my hands, so.....off to the sporting goods store, where I found clear hockey tape. In a word, this stuff is AMAZING! It's cheap (about $2.50 for a large roll) and a handy 1" width. Putting down a layer of it right OVER the old glitter was a cinch (the hockey tape is amazingly flexible, stretchable, didn't make wrinkles or anything nasty) and the result is quite lovely!

Not only that - but hockey tape is meant to help you hold onto the stick, so - even though it seems like a rather slick tape, I find that it grips very well. Just a comfortable feel, overall.

Now I'm wondering about using the clear tape to hold down something like cheap glitter gift wrap ribbon, or even sequins.....

posted in Hula Hooping - 11 replies

Question about kiddie hoops...

2008-04-19T04:36:10Z

I have question....everyone who has a real hoop says its pretty much impossible to get a kiddie hoop to stay up. I'm new here and just found out about pro hoops...I'm actually in the process of ordering a few for myself. My question is this...I've only used kiddie hoops and have never had a problem keeping them up.....what's up with that? I guess I'm wondering now if I'll be as good with a real hoop.

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

buying a hoop

2008-04-19T02:41:03Z

Hi ....I'm a new member looking for some help buying a hoop. I've never owned anything other than the kiddie hoops. Believe it or not, until I found this site I though I was the only grown woman who spent hours hula hooping (so did my friends and family). Anyway...none of the sporting stores seem to carry them where I live, and I would like to get a decent one. Sometimes you take a chance getting crap when you shop online, but I feel confident that many of you can give me some great resources of where to get a good hoop. I don't want to spend $100 bucks though.... Thanks

posted in Hula Hooping - 10 replies

How big for a Hoop for 2?

2008-04-16T20:57:02Z

I'm on the last few meters of my current roll of pipe, and have no hoops pending (until I buy some yummy new tape from Sue and then I think my breeding programme may start again in earnest), so was thinking of making a Big hoop for 2 person hooping.

So my question is, how big does a hoop for 2 need to be?

Thanks all!

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Hoop Parties for Kids

2008-04-16T12:10:29Z

I have been asked to do 3 birthday parties for children. I will have to bring hoops for all to use. I would love advice from anyone on how to successfully do kid parties. How much should I charge for my services? One group is 4 year olds. Another is 10 year olds. Don't know the age of the third, but my guess is about 7 year olds. Thanks!

posted in Hula Hooping - 7 replies

Hand Painted Hoops?

2008-04-16T01:59:03Z

Greetings!

This is my first post here so I'll give a little of my background. I'm fairly new to the hooping thing (about 6 weeks) and I'm afraid that it has become an addiction. Hey, at least it's a healthy addiction! I found out about hooping more or less through the Bonnaroo music festival. That led me to the youtube clips. Then I found out about Burning Man. : ) That led me to hooping.org where I learned how to make my own hoops. So, as I'm sure most of you have done, I called up several hardware stores until I found one that had all of the necessary supplies (Lowe's). This brings me to the point of the post...

I am a graphic designer as well as a gallery artist, so my mind natural goes towards painting everything. I wanted to hand paint my hoop. So I have finally devised a way to keep the paint on the electrical tape. It took quite a bit of experimenting. The only way the paint comes off now is if the tape gets gouged or scraped off. I found that the tape was necessary for some grip. So, while the paint job is not indestructible, I would like to think that it will age gracefully. There is a picture of one that is in-progress in my photos. I am making it for my friend Jenny and I still have a lot more detail to add to it. Nevertheless, you can see where I am going with it. She has requested blues, aquas, and greens.

I have two questions:

1. Has anyone has any experience with painting hoops before? I can't seem to find anything about it, but I might need to look harder.

2. Do you think that custom painted hoops would be very marketable to sell? Is it an appealing idea?

I am trying to feel everyone out on the concept. Any comments you have would much appreciated!

- Megan

posted in Hula Hooping - 20 replies

Shipping dilema

2008-04-15T15:45:40Z

I need to ship a hoop to the Little Caimon Island in Turks and Caicos (from the US - Florida to be specific). Is there any affordable way to do this? The quote I got from UPS was $195, which is ridiculous. The measurements of the hoop are: 43 inch diameter, 3/4 inch tubing, and a weight of 1 lb. The guy at UPS said it was so expensive because once you cross US borders, the cost of shipping any large package gets a lot higher.
Help! :(

posted in Hula Hooping - 3 replies

New hoop swap tribe..

2008-04-15T07:06:56Z

I created this tribe after looking and not seeing one , and thought others might like to use it as well.
Brand new tribe to swap and trade hoop /hooping related stuff.
A place to list your extra tape, or swap for different colors, trade hoops or costumes.

http://tribes.tribe.net/hoopswap

Thanks : )

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

Looking for a (travel) hoop and instructional DVD...

2008-04-13T12:56:22Z

I am new to hooping and have been looking around for a god hoop that I can travel with. (I don't mind getting the tapes and covering it myself, especially since I have not seen one that jumps out at me yet...)

I saw this hoop:

www.flammaaeterna.com/p-960-f...oop.aspx

What are your thoughts on it? Are there others that you prefer?

Also, are there any DVD's that you prefer over others (or ones that I should stay away from)? I travel a lot so a DVD is probably the best way for me to go. (I do come from a strong dance background so I am hoping this is realistic...)

Thoughts?

posted in Hula Hooping - 13 replies

April 2008 Goals

2008-04-13T10:01:11Z

Awww, everybody is at the Hoop Convergence right now!! I'm so sad I couldn't make it. I'm sure that when y'all come back from such an inspiring weekend, you'll have plenty of things to work on... so share 'em here!

For me, this past month ended up being about breaks and reverses. That was unexpected! But I did significantly improve my opposite direction shoulder hooping, so at least one of my planned goals for March was accomplished.

In April, I think my primary goal is going to be breaking out of my patterns. I find myself going back to the same combinations of moves over and over again, and simply forgetting about all the other stuff I love to do with the hoop! So I'm going to make a serious effort to work my entire vocabulary of movements when I'm practicing and jamming.

Also, I'm going to be teaching my very first hooping workshop at the beginning of May, so I definitely need to focus on preparing for that experience. I'm gathering a group of friends next week to run through the class with me as my guinea pigs, so that I get more of an idea of what teaching techniques work, what I'll have time for in a 2.5 hour workshop, etc. It's very exciting!!

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Infinity Travel Hoop - One Year Anniversary!!

2008-04-12T15:28:21Z

Its been exciting to see how far our Infinity Travel hoop has traveled and the evolution of this design. Our unique figure-8 folding hoop is in patent pending status, which is very exciting. From using simple pvc connectors to a now more sophisticated swiveling connector we have continued to develop this hoop to be an amazing collapsable hoop.
We know that it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out how we came up with this unique design, but nevertheless we have spent many many hours on research and development to continue upgrading and making a super quality travel hoop. Many thanks to those who have written in and expressed gratitude, appreciation and support for the Infinity Travel Hoop by BodyHoops. With over 2000 sold to this point and only a couple of failed hoops, we are thrilled about the response from our users. We will soon be releasing a newer model which will be lighter and even more easier to open than this last upgrade. I'll keep you posted. For now, we are offering $10. off orders until the end of April. A token of our appreciation and in celebration of the Infinity Travel Hoop, one year anniversary.

thank you!

posted in Hula Hooping - 16 replies

hula hip at Crunch Fitness

2008-04-12T14:52:19Z

I saw a listing for some hoop class at Crunch Fitness and wondered if any hoopers have taken them:

Hula Hip
Where the Strip Bar meets the hula-hoop. Burn calories and tone your torso while learning dances and tricks with a weighted glow-in-the-dark hula-hoop.
http://www.crunch.com/crunch/classes/descriptions.aspx?id=7

Hula Hoop Pilates
Swivel your way to a leaner tummy with this nostalgic approach to Pilates. The class incorporates traditional Pilates movements and techniques with the addition of core routines using hoops, bands, foam tubing and 7-inch fitness balls.
http://www.crunch.com/crunch/classes/descriptions.aspx?id=8

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

Kids showcase and generating work

2008-04-11T18:21:36Z

The kids from my dance school did their Easter School show case today, which included the hooping routine I taught them. It went down a storm with both the parents and the kids. They pulled off stuff that I had only demo'd but not actually taught them, barely dropped the hoops and had a great time.

As a result, all the kids have been bugging me about classes, and the dance school have said they're considering holding a hooping class. Plus one of the dance teachers also choreographs and performs at a local night club and has asked me to go down and do a session with them as they'd like to introduce hooping into their show.. YIKES! Not convinced I have the skills for perfomance hooping yet, but I can show them what I know and they can tell me what they think!

Thanks to all of you who gave me brilliant advice and support when I first asked about this - it will be of great use for me in the future too.

posted in Hula Hooping - 5 replies

Registration Links to HoopPath Workshops in California 4/12-4/21

2008-04-11T00:40:43Z

Howdy!

We've finally got these registration links a-goin' for all our California workshops next month. We will present the following workshops:

Saturday April 12th and Sunday April 13th: HoopPath Santa Cruz
Monday April 14th: HoopPath Intensive, Santa Cruz
Wednesday April 16th: HoopPath LA
Thursday April 17th: HoopPath Ojai
Saturday April 19th and Sunday April 20th: HoopPath San Francisco
Monday April 21st: HoopPath Intensive, San Francisco

Things to bear in mind: All of the workshops except for the two intensives are suitable for hoopers of ANY SKILL LEVEL, total beginners and hoop professionals alike. Because the HoopPath is a unique approach with its own language and specific imagery that we share and learn from together, even a highly advanced hooper will need to become familiar with our terms and concepts to be able to fully benefit from the exercises.

The workshops will all be quite rigorous. You will need to pace yourself, particularly if you are a beginning hooper, and please remember to bring some water to stay refreshed and hydrated. We do a lot of talkin', but we do a LOT of hoopin' too!

Finally, in Santa Cruz and San Francisco, the Saturday-Sunday workshops are a prerequisite for the Monday intensives.

Even though I seem to have gotten caught in some kind of yokel persona above (yee-haw!) I can still answer any of your questions if you write to me here or at ann@hooppath.com

Here's the links! All of 'em!

www.etix.com/ticket/servlet/onlineSearch

posted in Hula Hooping - 18 replies

Tape Question

2008-04-10T23:23:34Z

Hey guys

Just putting a tape order together on identi-tape. I was just wondering if anyone has tried the "checkered vinyl" tape before. Looks pretty cool on the computer but I want to make sure its not going to be a waste of money.
Also kind of curious of how those striped vinyls look, if anyone has tried those out.

Cheers
Holly

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Can you take a normal hoop on a plane?

2008-04-10T17:03:27Z

So I've found lots of previous threads specifically about collapsible hoops... but what if I want to take one of my normal hoops on a plane? Has anyone tried to do this? I would imagine that it would have to be checked, rather than carry-on... what are the chances of the hoop getting bent up or broken? Will they even LET me check it? What if I wrap it in brown paper?
I'm going home to visit my family in May and I think having one of my hoops with me will be about the only thing that can keep me sane =)

posted in Hula Hooping - 11 replies

Hoop Path Workshop in Santa Cruz This Weekend

2008-04-10T16:09:33Z

THE HOOP PATH COMES TO TOWN THIS WEEKEND
SPACE IS STILL OPEN!

THE HOOP PATH WORKSHOP
IN SANTA CRUZ
DATES: APRIL 12-14th
LOCATION: THE SANTA CRUZ DANCE COMPANY
SIGN UP AT:
Hoop Path Workshop Registration on ETIX
THE HOOP PATHERS (BAXTER AND ANN) WILL MAKE A SPECIAL GUEST APPEARANCE AT OUR SUNDAY HOOPJAM- APRIL 13
Come by and hoop with us!
5:30pm-Sunset
BONFIRE AND POTLUCK TO FOLLOW
AT THE HOME OF BLAZE
Bring something to BBQ and share
Contact Heather to get more details
831 566-9952/hat360@hotmail.com

WORKSHOP 1- Introduction to the Hoop Path- SATURDAY, APRIL 12, 1-4:00pm and SUNDAY, APRIL 13, 1-4:00pm.
WORSHOP 2- The Hoop Path Intensive- Monday, April 14- 6:30pm-9:30pm,
LOCATION: The Santa Cruz Dance Company, 2800 Porter Street, Soquel, CA 95073
FEE: $110 for 6 hours of instruction (Sat & Sun)
FEE: $140 for Sat, Sun and Mon

ADVANCE SIGN-UP REQUIRED! SPACE IS LIMITED SINCE THIS WORKSHOP IS BEING ADVERTISED NATIONALLY!
SIGN UP NOW AT:
WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS

WORKSHOP 1: "Introduction to the Hoop Path":
WHEN/WHERE: Saturday and Sunday, April 12-13th. From 1-4pm both days at The Santa Cruz Dance Company, 2800 Porter Street, Soquel, CA 95073

This two-part workshop will introduce you to the physical challenge and meditative bliss of hoopdance: the energetic flow art of dancing with the sacred circle, the hoop. Hooping can be an exercise, a dance, a meditation. On the Hoop Path, we approach our hoop Practice with shared intentions not only to improve our hooping skill, but also to develop the skills to go Within, as we believe that Inner and Outer strength are inextricably and intimately intertwined. The introductory workshop will be divided into two sections, both taught by master teacher and Hoop Path founder Jonathan Baxter. Together we will focus on building core hooping skills, introducing students to Hoop Path terms such as pe*A*ce, Ritmo, One Tree/Two Tree Hooping, and Two Birds. Depending on where we find our rhythm as a group, we may well get into some of the more physically challenging techniques like Reversing, Breaking, Paddling, Lifts, and Angle Hooping .

WORKSHOP 2: "The Hoop Path Intensive":

WHEN/WHERE: 6:30pm-8:30pm, MONDAY, APRIL 14 The Santa Cruz Dance Company, 2800 Porter Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95073

This workshop is designed for seasoned hoopers who seek to deepen their personal Hoop Practice. We will move into some of the more complex aspects of Hooping, which will definitely include challenges to the Body, but also to the Mind and Spirit. Off-body techniques that require additional concentration, such as Rolling, Point, and Samurai, will be explored, as well as core exercises designed to help you discover reservoirs of Strength you might as yet be unaware of.

Aren't familiar with The Hoop Path yet? Check out this youtube of Baxter and the Hoop Path DVD Trailer.

The Hoop Path DVD Trailer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wydm5F1gWwg

THE HOOP PATH BIO
Jonathan Baxter picked up a hoop for the first time six years ago, thinking it would help him rehabilitate some injured shoulder muscles. He never dreamed it would develop into a daily meditation that totally transformed him, inside and out. Over the years he has logged in thousands and thousands of hooping hours--what we on the HoopPath call "flight time." Baxter's commitment to his Practice has revealed to him many of the profound subtleties to be found this ecstatic movement. This extensive and direct involvement with "hoopgnosis," coupled with Baxter's unique gifts as a storyteller and guide, make him an extraordinary teacher.

Baxter's longtime student and partner, Ann Humphreys, demonstrates and assists in HoopPath workshops. Ann attended her first HoopPath class in the summer of '05 and became a committed hooper a year later. An insatiable and eager student, she rapidly absorbed the HoopPath teachings and quickly developed her own distinctive hoopstyle. She brings eight years of yoga experience, as well as high energy and an infectious enthusiasm, to HoopPath classes.
Watch Ann Hooping on youtube
Ann Hooping

Bax's course, The Hoop Path, equally emphasizes both the spiritual and the technical dimensions of hoopdance. Through personal story and myth, Baxter deepens the student's metaphorical and physical understanding of a wide variety of hoop moves and dynamics. His connection to his students is genuine and distinctive--as much as help you become skilled and graceful hooper, Bax wants to help you connect to your inner rhythm, and know yourself from that place.

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

tender breasts?

2008-04-10T14:37:12Z

anyone find that their breasts just are too sensitive to practice things like chest hooping? My friend and hooping partner squeals every time it goes over her breasts, and they really are sore. she hasn't joined yet, so I'm posting this for her. Any thoughts? Thanks!

posted in Hula Hooping - 26 replies

FREE DIY LED HULA HOOP AND HOOP REPAIR CLASS

2008-04-09T19:41:13Z

Make your very own LED Hula Hoop!
I am teaching a DIY LED Hula Hoop workshop at 3rd Ward on Wednesday April 16th in Brooklyn, NY. Bring your hoop parts or buy your LED hoop parts at a *discounted promotional rate* of only $45!!
https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=purchase%40prodmod%2ecom&item_name=LED%20Hula%20Hoop%20Kit%20for%203rd%20Ward%20Workshop&item_number=LEDHOOPv1%2e2%2d1inch%2d7B%2d7G%2d7C%2d3RD%20WARD&amount=45%2e00&shipping=0%2e00&no_shipping=0&no_note=1¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dBuyNowBF&charset=UTF%2d8
and pick it up in class when you arrive.
I’ll be focusing on the 1inch thick hoop kit currently for sale on www.prodmod.com
but I can also accomodate someone with other sizes. I will take you step by step through making your very own LED Hula Hoop.

This is also a great opportunity to ask questions or maybe even repair a hoop you already own. Does your Psihoop or superhooper need refreshing? Busted switch?
Bring it in and i'll see what I can do.

If you are in the area I recommend checking it out. Even if you aren’t sure about buying one you can sign up and see how its done. Meet people with similar interests, share info.
I’ll also try to bring a few extra kits for last minute purchases.

If you are interested please sign up today, the original deadline is tomorrow. Full details can be found at the bottom of 3rd ward’s page.
http://www.3rdward.com/classes/apr/diy

I hope to see you there!

posted in Hula Hooping - 10 replies

Praises for our Hoop Elders

2008-04-08T21:41:14Z

“No one lives long enough to learn everything they need to learn starting from scratch.
To be successful, we absolutely, positively have to find people who have already paid the price to learn the things that we need to learn to achieve our goals.” – Brian Tracey

I have been blessed to have some amazing hoop teachers. My first was Paula who taught me that grownups could hoop and talked me into buying my first hoop. The second was Vivian (aka Spiral - http://www.spiralhoopdance.com/). I had heard of Vivian (who wasn't Spiral yet ;^) before I ever saw her hoop. When I finally saw it, I was blown away. It was galaxies beyond anything I could have imagined. Beautiful, graceful, athletic ... I was instantly inspired. And, while everyone around me was gasping, “I could never do that”, I thought, “I could do that! I am going to learn to do that!” That day I started a journey that I am still on today, a journey that has been empowering and captivating and delightful and frustrating and challenging and life changing and wonderful. I am filled with gratitude.

Since then I’ve had many teachers – most of whom I’ve never met. I live in Raleigh, North Carolina and for a long, long time, I was the ONLY hooper here. Thank goodness for the folks at Hooping.org! Their forums helped me understand moves I’d seen but didn’t have a clue how to replicate. I am grateful for all those cyber teachers! And I am grateful to Hooping.org for creating such a wonderful space for sharing and learning! They also posted the first videos I’d ever seen of other people hooping. I will always remember the first time I saw the hooping video from Burning Man, 2004! It totally enflamed me. I learned from every hooper on that short video. Thank all of you too and thank Stephan for making that video.

I am also grateful to all the hoopers I have hooped with over the years. Baxter, Julia and Beth, along with Vivian, you have been wonderful teachers and examples. Thank you for fostering a hooping community in nearby Carrboro - the first I know of in this part of the country. Val, Allison and Pam, we have come a long way together. Thank you for the encouragement, patience and community. Patika, Micha and Christine – our playdates have led me to new and wonderful understandings. Anah, Cristabel, Stephan, Ariel, and all you wonderful hoopers on Tribe, I am so very grateful to you all. I would not be the hooper I am today without each and every one of you. You have all changed my life. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

We are all standing on the shoulders of giants. Would anyone else care to recognize their giants?

posted in Hula Hooping - 46 replies

A few led hoop questions..

2008-04-08T19:26:57Z

I've been digging around and looking up information on some of the budget hoops ( want a Psi but ouchies atm)
I've looked at the superhooper, led headyhoops, and lightup and juggle(same one's Flamma Eterna and renegade juggling carry).
I didn't find any info on this so pardon if it's somewhere in the forums....
From what I gathered the superhooper and heady hoops rattle. I don't mind a a little bit but are they extreme as in my god it sounds like something is gonna break?
Heady hoops.. do they tape up or have like a button connector or plug style ( like the light up and juggle ones)
And the biggest question on these I couldn't find is how is the balance on these, does the battery packs throw them off noticeably?

posted in Hula Hooping - 11 replies

Exciting News for East Coast Hoopers!

2008-04-08T13:36:23Z

HoopGirl is coming to the Sunshine State! For the first time ever, Christabel will be hosting a HoopGirl teacher training workshop on the East Coast.

The program is spread over three days, for a total of 24 hours of hoopdance instructor training. It's intended for those seeking a career as entrepreneurs teaching hooping as a mind-body, athletic dance form. Teaching is taught as a transformational practice of personal growth and empowerment. Graduates have the option to license as official HoopStar Workout™. In other words, this is an awesome opportunity for you to become certified and spread the hoop love in your own city by teaching hooping classes.

The 3-day event will take place June 20-22 in St. Petersburg, Florida at the Roberts Recreation Center (located at 1246 50th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33703). For those unfamiliar, St. Pete is located just outside of Tampa.

So, if you live on the East Coast and have been thinking about becoming a certified HoopGirl instructor, now is your chance! Check out hoopgirl.com for more information and for registration details. Be sure to click on the 'Teacher Training' tab and then 'Certified Hoop Dance Program' to register.

If you have any questions about where to stay during your visit to the St. Pete/ Tampa Bay area, just let me know. I would be happy to provide you with recommendations.

Much Love and Happy Hooping!

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

Pregnant Hooping?

2008-04-08T01:46:50Z

Hi. I'm new to this group and to hooping as well. I got into it through belly dancing. My husband and I have just started discussing our second child and I was wondering if I could hoop while pregnant.

posted in Hula Hooping - 5 replies

Sparkle Tape - Australia

2008-04-08T01:30:38Z

Hi all,
I know the tape question has been asked many times over but my question is a little bit specific.

I'm really desperate to get my hands on a supplier of glitter tape in Australia. I'm specifically looking for gold black and red glitter tape.

I had originally decided to go with identi tape there prices are good and I was fine with the $100 minimum for international purchases. The problem that I’m having is that for $120 worth of tape it was going to cost me around $190 to get it shipped. That is almost double not including the exchange rate. At first i though maybe I’ll get just enough tape for my performance hoops and the postage will be less but then I remembered the $100 minimum. So I’m in a bit of a fix.

Any help would be much appreciated or even any hints as to where i could get this kind of tape in bulk.

Thanks,
Jane

posted in Hula Hooping - 3 replies

DIY LED Hoop Kit Review/ Hoop for Sale

2008-04-06T17:49:55Z

Hey Hoopers -

So, after seeing an article on Hooping.org about a DIY hoop kit, I invested in one. Here's the info. on it:

http://prodmod.com/2008/01/31/diy-led-hula-hoop-parts-kit-for-sale/

A friend of mine helped me to assemble it, and it turned out well. It's no PSI, but it's definitley a visually appealing LED hoop for someone on a budget. With that said, there are a few things that I want to mention... first, the tubing is thin. I typically make hoops from 3/4 inch, 160 psi tubing from Lowe's. The tubing that arrived in my kit was 1/2 inch. So, the hoop is much lighter than what I'm used to. I also noticed some movement of the hoop shape at high speeds (the tubing seems a little soft). The gentleman who's making these kits says he plans to upgrade to a heavier tubing. But I've found that the hoop we made is great for verticle moves, stalls, tosses, isolations and other spin-type tricks. I also think this hoop would make a great LED hoop for a child - I'm guessing 7 - 10 years old simply due to the hoop diameter...

The assembled hoop measures 40 inches in diameter, and it DOES rattle. So, if that bothers you, then this hoop is not for you. The switch is great. You don't run into the issue of turning the hoop off by accident. The switch is small, and it slides and clicks into place.

In terms of aesthetics, I think the hoop is very pretty. We added both slow color-changing LEDs, as well as fast color-changing LEDs. There are also stationary/ one-color LEDs in blue, purple, green and white. The hoop is decorated with flourescent orange gaffers tape, as well as silver mirror tape. I plan to shoot a video of the hoop this weekend so I can show you all what it looks like (although I should warn you... my video camera sucks, so I'll take some pics too - just in case the video doesn't do it justice).

Now, the part that I'm not so crazy about... the battery. The kit comes with a battery that is not rechargeable. However, it does have a long life span. I was told that the battery should last a few months with moderate use. I can't guarantee this, however, because I'm just going by what I was told. If you're good at following directions and/ or if you've got someone in your life who does well with small projects, I would recommend contacting Mike at ProdMod to obtain directions on changing this battery out to a rechargeable one when the battery dies (he already told me that this is doable). It will be a bit of a project but nowhere near as complicated (or time consuming) as assembling the kit from start to finish.

So, with all of that said - I'm selling the hoop that we made for $65. This is a very good deal, considering I bought it for $50 and it took us hours to assemble. I've marked it up just enough to cover the shipping costs. And - as you can see - there are pros and cons to this hoop. I want to be fair and put it all out there, and if you're still interested in purchasing this lightweight LED hoop, please send me a message and I'll give you more info/ answer any questions that you may have.

Also, the reason I'm selling this hoop is because I already have a PSI hoop and I wanted to try the DIY kit just to see how hard/ easy it was to assemble.

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

?? on basic waist-hooping technique... and why isn't my hoop perfectly round?

2008-04-04T18:52:50Z

Hello to all the hoopers out there.

I am VERY new to hooping, in the sense that I have 2 hoops, one from canyonhoops.com, and the other from Hoopnotica.com (this was before the discovered the neat article on making your own hoops, which I hope to start doing in the future because these hoops were not cheap - $25 and $44 respectively, w/o counting shipping costs!). But I can't seem to get the technique down for waist hooping. I didn't play with hula hoops when I was a kid. Well, I probably dabbled in them when I was at a friend's house, but I never had one of my own, so this is really a brand new activity for me.

Can anyone give me some step-by-step instructions for waist-hooping? I've watched the vids on Hoopnotica's web site (I LOVE the Guggenhoopin' video the best and would like to get the music from it) and they make it look so easy. But then I try it and the hoop inveriably ended up spiraling down to the floor. I don't know what I am doing wrong, probably moving in the wrong direction at the wrong time or something.

I can do hand-hooping and throws, but then... I am a former baton twirler, so that is expected that I would be good at that.

My other question involves the shape of the hoop. I got the Hoopnotica hoop first, and I notice that the hoop is sort of flat rather than rounded on the side where the connector joint is (where the two ends of the pipe come together. Is this normal and will it affect the hoop's rotation in waist hooping? The other hoop comes unconnected, and you have to put the ends together yourself, and Ron Klint includes instructions to get rid of the "elliptical" shape. But that works better on his hoop, which is 200 psi, than on the other hoop, which is probably 160 psi.

Any advice or info on these ?? would be greatly appreciated!!

posted in Hula Hooping - 10 replies

Help w/ LED hoops??

2008-04-04T16:09:45Z

I'm in the market for a LED hoop...I've been looking around at different sites and was wondering if anyone could comment on their experiences or had any suggestions...I've looked at Flamma Aeterna's 18 LED hoop, Hooping Harmony's SuperNova, SuperHooper's SuperStar and LEDHeadyHoops 20 LED hoop(www.ledheadyhoops.com). Thanks in advance for your help. : )

Love, Light n' Laughter,
~T

posted in Hula Hooping - 12 replies

the etiquette of hooping in public places

2008-04-04T10:31:45Z

as the weather gets warmer here in philly, i'm really excited at the thought of getting my hoop out and about in the nice weather. it makes me, wonder, though, what everyone's thoughts are on "hoop etiquette" when it comes to bringing a hoop to a public event. for instance, has anyone ever brought their hoop to an outdoor concert venue and been turned away by security? are there any places you wouldn't bring your hoop?

also -- if you're at a crowded festival and have your hoop with you, how do you go about making the room to hoop so that you're not whacking strangers who walk by? it seems like, from the videos on here, most people just go to the back of the crowd...

posted in Hula Hooping - 18 replies

Help! Scuffed Walls!

2008-04-03T19:22:16Z

The studio I hoop at has a yellow-and-orange painted wall that now has green streaks on it! I tried to scrub with glass cleaner, and it just made it worse!

Help! I need suggestions for getting scuffs from gaffer's tape (or vinyl?) off the walls!

posted in Hula Hooping - 22 replies

Hoop Convergence goes International!!!

2008-04-03T05:20:15Z

Hi all,

I am happy to announce that the Hoop Convergence (or HoopCon, as some folks are starting to call it) is now the first INTERNATIONAL conference dedicated to hooping and hoopers. We have just signed teachers and students from Canada in addition to all over the United States. I hope next year will bring folks from other countries as well. Yay!

The Convergence starts in about 10 days. We are all sharing a beautiful camp (in either cabins with bunkbeds or in tents) on 400 beautiful acres in Hillsborough, NC. We have chefs who will prepare our delicious healthy meals. We have lodges for all the different workshops and a big lodge for the Hooper's Ball. We also have 21 amazing hoop teachers coming from all over the US and Canada to teach every aspect of hooping you can think of. It is going to rock so hard!

There are still a couple of spaces left. Not many. Five or so, I think. But I wanted to put it out there for anyone who could still attend.

Check out this list of teachers and workshops. (You'll notice several teachers are teaching more than one workshop!)

Ali Cat Cerruli (Fire Hoop Design and Sustainability):
http://people.tribe.net/ali_cat

AlleyOop Hoops (Hooping with Multiple Hoops):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tNUdjy2iddI

Ammon & Maria of Boston Hoop Troupe (Partner Hooping):
http://tribes.tribe.net/bostonhooptroop

Anah (aka Hoopalicious) Rechenback (Advanced Hoop Movement and Turning Your Tricks into Dance) :
http://www.hooprevolution.com/

Annie Weinert (No Sew Costume Techniques):
http://www.annieland.net/

Ariana and Laura of Hooping Harmony (Hooping Health and Hooping with Special Communities):
http://www.hoopingharmony.com/

Carolyn (aka Caroleeena) Mabry (Integrating Handwork and Arm Technique and Fire Safety):
http://people.tribe.net/caroleeena

Patika and Christine of the Emberellas (Performance Makeup Techniques):
http://www.myspace.com/emberellas

Julia (aka Jewels) Hartsell (Dervish Style Sustained Hooping and Twin Hooping):
http://www.hoopbliss.com/?f1106140

Kara Maia of Mandala Hoops (Hoop Yoga, Hooping as Healing Art, Hooping Mama - Hooping thru pregnancy and post-partum):
http://www.maiahealingarts.com/healing-art-of-hoopdance/

Kari (aka Revolva) Jones (Street Hooping - aka Busking - and Ignition, Writing your Hoopdance):
http://people.tribe.net/revolva76

Melanie (aka MelMacPink) MacNeil (Hoop Yoga and Community Outreach and Service:
http://people.tribe.net/e929ea43-c447-46b9-8dcb-66eedb938503

Michelle Clark (Hoop Jumps aka Jumping for Joy!):
http://people.tribe.net/1f0da448-18e1-4aae-b5c6-2d04e04fcfd6

Sandra Ferreira (Hoop Yoga and Advanced Hoop Yoga):
http://www.sandyoga.com/bio.html

Spiral (Dervish Style Sustained Hooping and Twin Hooping):
http://www.spiralhoopdance.com/

Stephan of GrooveHoops (Hoop Performance Techniques, How to Teach a Beginner's Class, Choreography workshop):
http://people.tribe.net/22c7ea59-8a0b-4ac5-8a10-3dd0b906378e

Ted (aka SoyBoy) Branco (Hoop Flex and Hoop Camp):
http://people.tribe.net/8a09231d-7950-4d39-8923-20ddf6479eb5

Tracey Oliveto (Understanding the Chakra System):
http://people.tribe.net/a5fd82f8-a242-4308-a79c-00ba34fb4520

Hopefully I didnt' forget anyone. There may be one or two more teachers and workshops also. I'm not sure. But these folks are all confirmed and I can hardly sit still I'm so excited thinking about it.

To learn more or to register, check out the Hoop Convergence website:
http://www.hoopconvergence.com/

Or visit the Hoop Convergence tribe here on Tribe:
http://tribes.tribe.net/hoopconvergence

Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!!

posted in Hula Hooping - 2 replies

FIRED FOR HOOPING

2008-04-03T03:37:53Z

I have worked at a bar/restaurant for nearly a year and a half, and recently we have come under new management. The venue, Proud Larry's, has been host to acts including String Cheese Incident, Sound Tribe Sector 9, WSP, JJ Grey and Mofro, and the list goes on and on. I have hooped there countless times with friends, and the owner has even asked me to build his children hula hoops and teach them how. Thursday afternoon, a slow day at the place, I had just gotten off work, and a couple of the co workers decided to hoop in the restaurant. Customers came in, and I quickly put my hoop away, and they asked "Are you one of those girls that dances with the hula hoops?!" and I said, yes, but I'm putting this up, b/c i shouldn't do it while customers are in here trying to eat. And they said, Well, we're just having a few drinks at the bar, and watching those girls with the hula hoops is the most entertainment we've had in a while, so please, just do a little bit for us." I agreed, then stopped after about 5 minutes, and went home. I received a call later, saying that my hooping in the restaurant was a challenge to his (the manager's) authority and that they "had to let me go." After a year and a half of working there. Now this was a blow to my ego and my finances, of course, but I didn't take it to heart too much, b/c I have recently graduated and it's time to move on to a "real job"; however, I was outraged over getting fired for doing something that I was asked to do by customers, the owner, furthermore, and for doing something that brings such joy and happiness to spectators and partakers alike! Now that i've had time to let it marinate, i'm going out on this beautiful day to hoop my little heart out and finally get around to posting my first hooping video on tribe. I hope that you will look for it on the hooping videos group, as i will be posting it by the end of the day. I would love to get some responses from my fellow hooping community about this situation, as my hooping friends and co workers here are outraged and infuriated! Now, i know this is an ugly thing to say, but let me just say, for no other reason than to get it off my chest and make myself feel better, hey, new manager at Proud Larry's, "YOU'RE A DOUCHE BAG!!!!"

posted in Hula Hooping - 12 replies

opinions on the hoopnotica travelhoop.

2008-04-03T03:04:18Z

Hey there! I recently purchased a hula hoop from Loren of HoopClass.com, which is awesome for practicing at home, but carrying the hoop from Jersey to NY is a bit of a pain in the booty. I was thinking of buying Hoopnotica's TravelHoop, but have several concerns:

- Does the hoop feel flimsier than your average hoop, or does it seem sturdy?
- Are there any bits (at the joints) that I could easily bruise myself with (or smack myself in the face with)? :)
- Do you find that the hoops are too small for a medium, adult-sized hoop?

I'd love some opinions! Thanks - steph :)

posted in Hula Hooping - 9 replies

prAna

2008-04-02T22:49:51Z

Hey! Anyone else out there get the new prAna summer newsletter mailing? Who's the hooper rockin' the twins? Very cool! Hoopers taking the world by storm!! Oh yeah.

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Hooping with Kids

2008-04-02T17:50:34Z

Hey Guys!

I'm looking for some advice from those of you with Hooper Kids and anyone who has taught hooping to youngsters. I've been asked by the Principal of the dance school where I attend classes to do some hooping workshops during their Easter school (like Summer school, only shorter) culminating in a choreographed piece on the last day. The idea is to not have them all hooping at the same time, so each group does about 40 seconds worth of a 3 minute track (with me twirling in the middle)

I think I'll only have about 4 - 6 hours in total to teach and practice with them, which is a fair bit of pressure! The age group is from 8 - 16 years.

So what I'd like help with initially is:

Will my regular hoops be okay for the smaller ones?
How quickly do you find that children pick things up, so I can gain an idea of how and what to pitch at them?
Any suggestions for off body, not spinning dance type moves which I can use for filler if necessary?

I may have more questions but I would greatly appreciate any input you guys can give.

Oh, and this will be my first time teaching actual Hoopdance (I've done hoop fitness a few times with my teen aerobix class), but I will have hopefully completed my Bodyhoops teacher training the week before.

Thanks so much in advance

Kitty

P.S. Any chance I could borrow Princess Sierra for inspiration?! ;o)
I'll be catching up on her video's again for definite before I do this!

posted in Hula Hooping - 18 replies

Gathering of the vibes hooping

2008-04-02T00:24:08Z

Is there anyone here going to gathering of the vibes that is hooping there??????

posted in Hula Hooping - 7 replies

Domeof hoops

2008-04-01T23:57:26Z

A friend of mine sent me this link today and I thought I'd share this dome made of hoops with you all.
http://www.designboom.com/weblog/read.php?CATEGORY_PK=&TOPIC_PK=2654

Cool huh?

posted in Hula Hooping - 1 reply

Hoops for little people

2008-04-01T22:52:01Z

After seeing Sierra on Ellen, my daughters (ages 4 & 6) have found a new idol. Thanks so much for posting this Rebecca! you and your daughter are fantastic!

Anyhow, I was thinking of making hoops for them, the ones we've found in the store are so flimsy and they definitely prefer mine, but it seems soooo big on them. So, I thought we could make some so that they could each have their own, pick their colors that sort of thing. I was wondering about the dimensions of real hoops for kids. Diameter of the piping? overall diameter of the hoop? Any suggestions?

posted in Hula Hooping - 6 replies

Fire Hooping Stickers - Now Available!

2008-04-01T22:48:54Z

Hey Fire Hoopers! Get your burn on!

Fire bumper stickers are now available! Sticker measure 3" x 5" and are 3.00 each (includes US shipping) or 2.50 at Convergence.

Check it out
http://people.tribe.net/ef82316c-1161-4df6-9054-86cfc1596468/photos/5d30d8a2-ca75-4a1e-8257-308987c1ce35

Payments can be made via PayPal . Send payments to Rhellemans2@gmail.com and include your mailing address.

Supplies are currently limited.. so don't wait!

Hottie Hooping Hugs~
Rebecca

posted in Hula Hooping - 4 replies

I am new to the whole hooping thing....

2008-04-01T21:05:01Z

I am looking for any tips and techniques anyone may have for fitness hooping... Thanks, PeAcE

posted in Hula Hooping - 3 replies

Pink tape???

2008-04-01T16:07:55Z

I wanted to get a roll or 2 of flourescent pink tape, but local stores don't carry it and I have checked identi-tape per Jason's instructions and found out that I would end up paying $20.50 for 1 roll of tape!! They charge $5 for orders less than $25 plus $7 shipping. I think that's really high for 1 roll of tape! Is this my only option??

posted in Hula Hooping - 7 replies

Quick fix for slipping hoop

2008-04-01T03:17:31Z

I have to make a hoop on the fly this evening and I don't have any gaffer tape or anything like that. It's for a newbie and I was wondering if you all knew of any quick fixes to help with slippage. I only have vinyl tape at the moment.

posted in Hula Hooping - 13 replies

Adjusting Superhooper diameter...

2008-03-28T18:08:46Z

...I'm considering performing surgery on my Superhooper LED hoop. When I ordered it several months ago at 39", it was significantly smaller than the hoops I'd been working with, so I thought I had enough room to grow. Well, now I'm obsessed with 35" hoops, the the 39" one feels huge and bulky to me and I'm not very comfortable performing with it anymore. Has anyone successfuly reduced the diameter of their LED hoop? I haven't even opened it up to change the batteries yet... I'm not terribly good with my hands in this way... I'm guessing I can open it up, cut off a few inches of tubing, push the wiring back a bit into the hoop, maybe resecure the wiring with silicone? Any tips or absolute no-no's would be appreciated.

posted in Hula Hooping - 4 replies

More Hooping on the Wii

2008-03-27T19:38:32Z

I know there was a topic some time ago about Wario Smooth Moves and how it had a short segment with hooping. I guess it was popular - Nintendo is releasing a Wii Fit 'game' in a few months that measures your balance, and it has lots of hooping in it! There is a video ad on Amazon - a short hooping segment is about 1 minute into the video:

http://www.amazon.com/Nintendo-Wii-Fit/dp/B000VJRU44/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=videogames&qid=1206643684&sr=8-1

posted in Hula Hooping - 0 replies

Hoop Dance Jam at the Saratoga Springs Dance Flurry?

2008-03-27T12:38:59Z

I'm taking my travel hoop. Anyone else going?

posted in Hula Hooping - 6 replies