Ask yourself first
Many beginners want a larger hoop for waist hooping and a lighter hoop for off-body moves. Taking a class is a good way to try several.
- What is your skill level, and do you have physical limits that call for a certain size?
- Will you mostly hoop at your waist for a workout, or add off-body dance moves?
- Where will you hoop? You need a large indoor space, a backyard or a park.
- Do you need a hoop that travels with you?
Adult sizes
Stood upright, the hoop should reach between your waist and chest.
- Small hoops are 36 to 39 inches across, for youth or advanced adults.
- Mid-size dance hoops are about 40 to 42 inches.
- Large hoops are 43 inches or more.
- Large adult hoops for new hoopers stand 41 to 45 inches and weigh 1.5 to 2.5 pounds.
Weight
- Adult hoops usually weigh 1.5 to 2 pounds. Professional dance hoops are smaller and weigh about 1 pound.
- Weighted exercise hoops weigh 3 to 5 pounds or more. Some can be filled with water or sand.
- Heavier is not always better. Larger, heavier hoops are easier to keep spinning, so you may hoop longer.
- Heavier hoops can leave bruises, so use caution and ask your doctor if you have concerns.
Kids and travel
- Small, light hoops suit children ages 5 to 12. They are typically 28 to 36 inches across and weigh about 8 ounces.
- Travel hoops, also called collapsible hoops, twist into smaller circles or come apart in sections. They are usually slightly heavier because of the connectors.
- Sectional hoops are easier to carry on planes than figure 8 hoops.
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This is general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor before you start a new exercise routine.