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October 2007
Heavy hula hoop for your Health?
The basic workout involves twirling plus simple arm motions.
WEIGHTY WHIRLThe basic workout involves twirling plus simple arm motions.
"Burn more calories than a high impact aerobic workout," promises the Web site for Heavy Hoop, a foam-padded steel version
of the plastic hula hoop. "Scientifically tested and proven for cardiovascular fitness and weight loss by a major aerobic-research
institute." But even if you take the manufacturer-funded research at face value, can the average person really twirl a 3-pound
or 5-pound hoop ($65 and $75, including shipping), let alone perform the tricky moves needed for a vigorous workout?
The experts we consulted said anyone who can keep a regular hula hoop up should be able to whirl a Heavy Hoop too. In fact,
the extra weight may make it easier, they said, because of greater resistance between the hoop and the body. Experts who reviewed
one of several Heavy Hoop videos (available at extra cost) concluded that most people should be able to do the basic moves.
And with practice, some well-conditioned people may be able to do the advanced exercises.
Hooping vs. hopping
The advanced hoop workout may indeed burn more calories than would high-impact aerobics for people who are fit, according
to our consultants and limited testing at the Cooper Institute, a Dallas-based nonprofit research center specializing in exercise
and health. A basic Heavy Hoop workout probably would be beneficial too, our consultants said. Even hooping for 5 or 10 minutes
at a time could contribute to the brief bursts of activity or harder exercise intervals that the new, more-demanding federal
exercise guidelines recommend.
CR's take: Fun way to vary your workouts if you've got the knack.
