After observing numerous physical fitness trends on TikTok, I never envisioned myself purchasing a weighted hula hoop. Nonetheless, one day, I encountered this emerging hula hoop movement and developed a keen interest. A TikTok user detailed how the use of a weighted hula hoop had sculpted her midsection more effectively than any other exercise, piquing my curiosity.
To my astonishment, there exist studies that corroborate the advantages of utilizing a weighted hula hoop. One study revealed that employing a weighted hula hoop on a daily basis for six weeks resulted in a reduction in waist size. Another study compared a cohort of individuals who utilized a weighted hula hoop daily and walked 9.9k steps per day to a group who solely engaged in walking the 9.9k steps. Both groups experienced weight loss, but the group that incorporated the weighted hula hoop also exhibited a reduction in waist size.
Intrigued and amenable to embarking on a new venture, I opted to procure the Swiss Activa smart weighted hula hoop. This specific hula hoop was equipped with 16 links to customise the fit to one’s waist size, a monitor to track hula hooping duration and calories burned, and a weighted ball. I committed to utilising it each day for a duration of 30-40 minutes per session over a span of two weeks.
The assembly of the hula hoop required some time, but once I acclimated to it, the process became fairly straightforward. I did not utilise every link, opting for a fit that was snug around my waist. The weighted ball had a mass of 422g, and the package also included a tape measure to document my waist size prior to commencing use of the hula hoop.
Employing a weighted hula hoop necessitated some practice, and the initial attempts were somewhat comical. However, once I mastered the technique, I discerned that it mandated a different approach than that of a standard hula hoop. I discovered that propelling the attached weighted ball away from me was pivotal to sustaining its motion.
According to personal trainer Anthony Maritato, the key is to sustain a consistent motion and a steady tempo. He also recommends adjusting the string’s length to modify the intensity.
Engaging in the prolonged utilisation of a weighted hula hoop also demands coordination. Initially, I grappled with maintaining the activity for the recommended 30-40 minutes, but as per Maritato, the duration of use hinges on one’s objectives.
I realised that employing the weighted hula hoop constituted a cardiovascular activity, culminating in each session leaving me perspiring and breathless. Although the intelligent attributes of the hula hoop did not precisely reflect the intensity of my workouts, as I did not rely on fitness trackers, this matter did not perturb me appreciably.
As I persevered with the use of the weighted hula hoop, I found that it grew somewhat monotonous. Nonetheless, substituting television with music provided me with a surge in vigour and motivation to persist.
One of the principal hurdles I encountered was the discomfort engendered by the links encircling my waist and the quandary of where to position my arms. I discovered that donning a thicker top and adjusting the hoop ameliorated some of the discomfort.
For me, engaging in the use of the weighted hula hoop did not yield any physical transformations over the two-week period. Maritato asserts that engaging in weighted hula hooping alone will not lead to a reduction in fat, and that adhering to a balanced diet and exercise routine is pivotal for effecting physical changes.
Notwithstanding the challenges, I found that employing the weighted hula hoop constituted a very accessible form of cardiovascular workout, and there were instances when I did not feel disposed to visit the gym, thus opting to utilise my hoop instead.
Ultimately, I may not continue its use as consistently as I did during this trial, but I will retain it as a substitute for days when visiting the gym is not practicable. Who knows, perhaps with further time, the advantages of using a weighted hula hoop will become more discernible.
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