Hoopdance FAQ

Hoopdance is a form of dance that involves use of a hoop around the body in a rhythmic motion. A lot of people refer to it as simply "hooping". It takes "hula hooping" to a new level. It incorporates elements of belly dance, hip-hop and rhythmic gymnastics. It's visually beautiful and hypnotizing. Can be used as a fitness tool, meditation or the art of playful seduction. It's a freestyle form of dance so there is no wrong way to do it! I personally call it "belly dance with a twist".

We provide students with professional, oversized hoops that were created for an adult body. Because of it's size and decoration they are heavier that your regular "toy store" hoop which helps keep it up and adds resistance to your workout. They are not weighted hoops, which can be uncomfortable to use as you learn new tricks. Size and decoration provides enough resistance. Also the size makes it comfortable to use it around your body when performing. The hoops we provide are around 1.5lbs in weight and 42' in diameter.

Wear comfortable clothing that will not restrict your movement. Yoga or Pilates wear are great. A pair of jeans and a sleeveless top works as well. Try not to wear slippery fabrics, as it may be hard for the hoop to stay up. General rule: the more skin the better as it provides friction and it's hard for the hoop to fall down. Barefoot or with sneakers on, it's up to you. Dress it up or play it down and come to have fun.

You will sweat, laugh and get creative with your own movement. Depending on the class level, we will learn how to hoop on our waists, hips, thighs, chest, shoulders, arms and neck. As you progress you will learn body moves that bring your balance and coordination to new heights. The more advanced you get the more cardiovascular workout you will receive. It may take some time to learn new things so be patient, as your body needs time to figure it out. Generally everyone can hoop on their waist within their first class. What takes time is to appear effortless as you hoop. And that's why we practice. We'll do all kinds of movement combinations so we can gracefully move with the hoop giving the appearance of dancing. The entire class is done standing. Bring a bottle of water with you.

Depends on how often you practice and how fast you learn. Within your first class you will be able to hoop on your waist. With time you learn how to hoop on your hips, thighs and chest. This may take 2 months to learn or a bit more depending how often you do it and for how long. Of course natural ability helps but it' s not essential. You don't need any previous dance background /experience to be able to hoop dance. Classes are designed for beginners in mind. Even if you were not able to do it as a kid you will keep it up this time. At the end it's all about what YOU get out of it. No matter what your skill level you will see incredible changes in the way you move your body. You may notice you are getting slimmer, stronger and more graceful. It's about the progress, not perfection. Who knew exercise can be so much fun?

Of course! Classes are designed for beginners in mind. People of all ages, shapes and sizes are welcome. Everyone can hoop. Class is meant to be fun and provide an incredibly effective workout so you don't want to miss out on that! Get in the hoop, give it a spin and you are on the way to your fitness goals! Still not sure about making it to the class? Contact me if you need more information. I would love to hear from you.

It's really popular at the underground club scene. You may also see performances at various festivals, parties or music videos (Justin Timberlake's, Beyonce's , Britney's to name a few). Professional hoopers may also use fire, LED or glow in the dark hoops for more dramatic effect and to hypnotize the audience. Burning Man Festival is the place to be if you want to see a lot of it and connect with the hooping community.

One person that needs to be mentioned here for her outstanding work and popularizing hoopdance is Anah "Hoopalicious". She was featured on "America's Got Talent". Another talented female hooper is Rayna McInturf, the "Hooping Goddess" which hypnotizes crowds with her slow and sensual hooping. Twice in a row she won "Female Hooper of the Year" award from hooping community (hooping.org). Christabel Zamour is another female star in the world of hoopdancing and her energetic style has brought her lot of attention. A lot of talent out there! Check them out, feel inspired and come to our classes and workshops to learn this beautiful art form that will keep you fit.

Prices vary according to the studio location at which the class is offered. See you in class!