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Hula, Anyone?
Posted by Ali Sweeney on Jan 19, 2011

Hi everyone,

My parents gave Ben a hula-hoop for Christmas. Um, have you tried a hula-hoop lately? I can't remember the last time I did—I was probably 8. Let me tell you, it kicked my butt. Or rather my butt, my core, my quads, and probably more.

If you (or your kids!) have one lying around, pick it up and give it a shot. It's a phenomenal core workout, and you don't have to be good at it to reap the benefits. Just trying to get the hang of it will work those muscles. And when you get a rhythm going, the thighs really start to burn, because you are using them to balance your whole body and maintain the movement. If you have kids, they'll want to get into the act with you—and you'll need the breather!

Another kid-friendly activity that really strengthens and tones is jumping rope. It can definitely get your heart rate up, too. What else have you found you can do with your kids to burn calories or strengthens muscles in a big way? I'd love to hear your suggestions!

xo

Ali

I've never been one for Hula-hoop, but they have this 'exercise' on the Wii-Fit. It's actually fun and yes, it does work out your entire body.

Ha, I think I have a hula hoop laying around here someplace...I should try this out! THanks for this tip! : )

Currently in this stage of my life, exercise with kids = jumping on a trampoline and chasing them while they learn to ride a bike. I'll have to try the hula hoop. Can't wait for the weather to warm up so we can swim every day. Treading water while they jump in off the diving board is KILLER for my legs and butt.

I used to hula hoop all the time as a kid. The last time I tried a couple of years ago, I couldn't get the hoop to stay up no matter how hard I tried. I have no clue what I did wrong LOL

i have been around hula hoops at work for years but never mastered how to keep the hoop up it always amazes me how some children just take so quickly to them. We have an enclosed trampoline at home which my daughter loves  Jumping on and running around the edge then in zig zag patterns we do that together. With my three boys aged 5 and half, 10,  13 years old  ball games at the park footy, soccer, basketball. Walks down to the river to visit the cows and horses.  This past  weekend chasing my 2 year old down to the beach and water sports with the boys throwing and catching balls in the water. Going for walks, jogs along the beach with the whole family. 

I play Wii Fitness with the kids and this has a Hula Hoop on it.  It is a true workout as well you have to bend to the left and right to catch the Hula Hoop's it works everything and works on your balance at the same time.

 

This will be one exercise I will work on. When I saw you Ali at the book signing @ BN in The Grove. You told me to work on my core area. I will see you in May for that spin class. You have given me a challenge and I plan on taking you up on it. Yes, I will be standing up for an entire song, so bring it on!!! (maybe two songs).

Thank you for taking the time to talk with all of us, I'm just sorry that more peole didn't make it. They missed seeing a beautiful person with a kind heart.

xo

Karin

Ali, I love it! My niece loves to hula hoop and counts to see how many she can do. I used to be good when I was a kid too but I tried using hers and I failed :-( I think you are totally right about what a great workout this could be so I am gonna give it a try. Thanks

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