New to hula hooping and wondering what the right hula hoop is for me? Well, truth be told there isn't a golden rule when it comes to what size hula hoop will be the best 'fit' for you. It could be a more substantial, heavier hula hoop or a lighter, smaller diameter hoop? While the hula hoop itself behaves according to the laws of physics. How that hoop interacts with your own body, mind, and hooping style varies from person to person.

Your 'ideal' hoop size will most likely change with time. As you advance in the discipline, especially if you hula hoop regularly! For example, I use during my personal practice 8-10 different sized hula hoops during one session, varying in weight and diameter from 30cm-150cm, and are made of many different kinds of plastic. That being said, an adult-sized hula hoop is recommended for beginners (110cm-140cm) when learning on-body hooping, which is where most of us start our 'hoop journey.' The hula hoop should come to just above your above belly button when standing on the floor. Though, some people may need a chest level hoop to get started. 

If you are reading this, you may be new to hooping and wondering what exactly is this 'hoop jam'? A hoop jam is a weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly indoor or outdoor social event. Where hula hoopers of all skill levels come together to play, practice, share tricks, exercise, and dance. Of course, other skill toys, and flow arts are always welcome (juggling, fans, staff, balls, poi etc...)!  


In this relaxed setting, you will have a chance to get acquainted with the sport, find the 'right' hoop for you, and ask some questions. Hoop jams are an excellent occasion for people who are not sure how to get started with the fitness activity of hooping. To try it out in an informal, supportive, and most importantly, fun atmosphere.

Hooping or hula hooping, also known as hoop dance is a combination of technical movements, mixed with freestyle (free expression), and classical dance moves. Hula hoops most often come in various forms of plastic (PE, PEX, polycarbonate, polypropylene) but can also come in either metal or wood. Hula hooping today is a much different activity from the classic toy crazy of your childhood. Modern 'hoopers' (people who hoop), on average, use hula hoops that are much larger in diameter and heavier than the toy hoops you will find at your local children's toy store (especially if you are a beginner). 

Romain and I left Huntington Beach and moved to Marseille in January 2014. When we arrived, for me, it was the classic fish out of water story. Coupled with a massive language barrier. For those of you who do not know, Romain is French from the northeast of France. And though he is not 'Marseillais' by birth, he did spend most of his childhood in the city and was kind enough to pass on the tips and tricks of a local to me. After living six years in Marseille and thanks to the countless activities with our hula hoop association. There is not a part of this city we have not walked, and  we do not know. 


Getting ready to say good-bye to a place that has for many years been our home. I started looking back at the photos and videos on our Instagram account. Reminiscing about how we spent our time in Marseille working on association Hoop de Mars. And thinking about how much life has changed since my pregnancy and Charles' subsequent birth.