FAQ  About hooping About getting a hoop About classes About private events Are you sure? I tried my nephew's hoop last month and I couldn't... Yes
you can! You just need the right size hoop! The hoops we use are
larger and heavier than kids hoops, which makes them *easier* to keep
up. How are these hoops different from the ones at Candian Tire? These hoops are hand-made and hand-taped, with all components manufactured in North America. These are larger and heavier and wrapped with friction tape so they're easy to use. They are decoratively taped to be prettier (especially in the summer sun). They are also more durable - you won't need to get a new one each year! Really? People do this? Huh? Yes! Check out hooping.org to find out more. Hooping came back for grown-ups about 10 years ago and now you'll see hoops in many different places - fitness classes, music festivals (from psy trance to bluegrass) and at cottages! Hooping communities can be found all over the world - check out World Hoop Day to see! Is it a workout? Yes! Hooping is a high-energy cardio workout that tones your core, arms, and hips. More importantly, it's a workout you'll WANT to do -- hooping relieves stress, promotes balance within your body and mind, and feels good! You will look forward to your daily sweat, just put on your favourite music and rock out! About getting a hoop How do I know what size is right for me? Bigger hoops more slower, so they're easier to use. Beginners go for hoops with a diameter equal to the distance from the ground to your gut. If you like to move slow, or have more padding, go for one closer to your sternum. If you are a fidgeter, slender, or looking for a cardio workout, go for your belly button. You'll get used to whatever hoop you have! Are these weighted? Yes and no. These are standard adult-size hoops, like those you can get from HoopGirl or Hoopnotica or BodyHoops. They are heavier than kids hoops, which is due to the weight of the tubing, not a filling. Standard hoops are easier to use than filled hoops, which means you'll use them more often and for longer, giving you a better workout. Do you sell water hoops? Yes! Just ask and I'll add water to any of the solid hoops. Water hoops feel different - the moving weight s l o w s d o w n the hoop, making it easier to use, and great for massage and meditation. Does the collapsible feel different? Will it come apart? Do I need one? No, no, maybe. See all the details and reasons for getting a ninja hoop here. What colors do you have? Too many to list. If you have a particular color scheme that you want, let me know when you order. If you're into all night parties, ask about black-light reactive tapes. Do you sell fire or LED hoops? No, but there are many people that do. Ask me and I'll send you my recommendations. They start at $100 plus shipping. About classes What if I've never touched a hoop? Great! Each drop-in class starts with a short intro to waist hooping, and each 6 week session begins with a full hour of waist hooping! What should I wear? Wear comfortable clothes you're not afraid to sweat in, clothes you would wear to yoga or to the gym. Shoes are not allowed in MDo (session classes) so don't worry about bringing out the sneakers! At the drop-in, you can wear shoes or go bare foot, your choice! Do you offer advanced classes? There will be advanced workshops and special focus workshops in the fall. In the meantime, you should come to the NMCA jams and play with us. Are there classes in Richmond Hill/Scarborough/Markham? Right now, the only classes in the GTA are downtown, and all listed in classes. If you have a group of friends who want to try hooping, we could do a 2 hour workshop in your neighborhood. Email for requirements and cost. Are there other classes in Ontario? Montreal? There are classes in Hamilton with LoriLynn of HoopAppeal, she is also a licensed HoopGirl instructor. There are hooping communities and classes in Ottawa and Montreal. If you know of others, classes or gatherings, let me know! What's a jam? A jam is the way hoopers gather... to learn, to socialize and to play! Jams are open to all levels and are unstructured. If you want to learn something, ask someone to teach you; if you want to help out, teach someone else; if you want to hide in the corner and hoop on your own - do it! At the NMCA jams, we have hoops (as well as poi and staff) available to borrow, and also have ones for sale. They happen every other Tuesday in Bellevue Square Park in Kensington Market (summer), or in the lobby of the Gailbraith building, east side of St George, north of College at the pedestrian-crossing (winter), check the events for which days this month. I want to hoop but I am really really poor. Send me an email and we'll work something out, I always need help flyering :) About private events Hooping is a great party diversion - it will get guests of all ages out of their seats, moving and giggling. Hoops are especially good at bachelorette parties - it's fun and sexy for loud and shy friends, daughters, moms and grandmas! What do I need? Space! Hoopers need about 100 square feet per person. Outdoor spaces (backyards and parks) can be used, indoor (non-weather dependent) are preferred. We can use a space you provide, or I can book one of the many dance/yoga/gym spaces in the city. Music! We can use yours, or ours! Let us know your theme and we'll work with it! Do we need hoops? Nope! I'll bring them! Special hoops can be made in your colours for your occasion or for your guest of honour. |