Dance

Hula hooping

Spin a hoop for a fun core workout.

  • Lightintensity
  • ~280kcal per hour
  • Freebudget
  • Lowimpact
Hula hooping illustration

Is hula hooping right for you?

Spin a hoop for a fun core workout. It is a light-intensity, low impact activity that you can do at home or outdoors, on your own. Expect to burn around 280 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.

Anyone can start. You can do it without spending anything.

Why try hula hooping

  • Burns calories. At around 280 kcal an hour it can help with weight loss alongside a balanced diet.
  • Improves fitness. It raises your heart rate and builds stamina.
  • Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.

How to start hula hooping

  1. Aim for 5 minutes of hooping to a favourite song.

  2. Get the basics: weighted hoop. Borrow or hire before you buy.

  3. Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.

  4. Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.

A 4-week starter plan

WeekSessionsMinutes eachFocus
1320Learn the basics and keep every session easy.
2325Repeat last week and add a little time.
3430Add a session or make one a bit harder.
4435Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next.

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.

Similar activities

Not sure hula hooping is for you?

Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.

Open the activity matcher