Trick Hooping vs Fitness Hooping: Finding the Perfect Hoop

Why You Need a Lighter Hula Hoop for Tricks (and the Right Hoop for Fitness!)

As I continue expanding my hula hoop journey, I’m diving deeper into the world of tricks and flow alongside my love for fitness hooping. You might have seen hoopers spinning, tossing and rolling hoops effortlessly, but did you know the type of hoop you use makes a huge difference? If you’ve ever tried tricks with a heavy fitness hoop and wondered why it felt impossible, here’s why you need a lighter hoop for tricks and a heavier one for fitness!

Trick Hooping: Why a Lighter Hoop?

I’ve been exploring more trick-based hooping, and one of the first things I realised is how much easier (and more enjoyable!) it is with the right hoop. Here’s why a lighter hoop is essential:

1. Better Control and Faster Movements

Tricks like isolations, escalators and rolls require speed and precision. A lighter hoop moves quickly and smoothly, making it easier to control, whereas a heavy hoop can slow you down.

2. Less Strain on Hands and Wrists

Trick hooping involves a lot of hand and arm work, including spins, flips and catches. A lighter hoop reduces strain, making it easier to practise for longer without feeling sore.

3. Perfect for Aerial Tricks

Ever tried to throw a weighted hoop in the air and catch it? It’s tough! Lighter hoops are much better for tosses and other aerial moves, giving you more time to react.

4. Smooth Transitions and Flow

Trick hooping is all about creating a seamless flow between moves. A lighter hoop allows for effortless transitions, helping everything look and feel more fluid.

5. Great for Off-Body Moves

If you’re working on isolations, ghosting or palm spins, a lightweight hoop makes these moves much easier to master.

To help with trick hooping, I’ll be making MDPE tubing hoops in a 20mm diameter, ideal for smooth, lightweight movement while still offering durability.

Fitness Hooping: Why a Heavier Hoop?

While lighter hoops are great for tricks, fitness hooping benefits from a heavier hoop. If your goal is core strength, endurance and an effective workout, a weighted hoop is the way to go.

1. Helps Maintain Momentum

A heavier hoop stays in motion with less effort, making it easier to keep spinning around your waist. This is great for beginners and those looking for a steady workout.

2. Builds Core Strength

The added weight increases resistance, making your core work harder and helping build strength over time.

3. Provides a Fun Cardio Workout

Hooping with a weighted hoop can elevate your heart rate, making it a fantastic, low-impact way to get your cardio in.

For fitness and dance hooping, I make 25mm diameter hoops with weight inside, designed for core workouts and Hula With Abs classes.

What’s Next for Hula With Abs?

As I develop my skills, I’ll be incorporating more trick elements into my sessions alongside fitness-based hooping. Whether you want to improve your flow with a lightweight hoop or build strength with a weighted one, there will be something for everyone!

If you need a travel-friendly hoop, Hula Dancercise offers amazing travel hoops. You can use my code ABBY to save on your purchase!

I’d love to hear from you. Are you more interested in trick hooping or fitness hooping? Let me know in the comments or message me with any questions!