Staying young with play

I think we need to play more.

Kids play, they're encouraged to be creative and they laugh a lot. When we grow up, we think we're supposed to be serious. We feel embarrassed if we're not perfect at something or make mistakes. We go to work. We do housework. Even our recreational time is called a "workout".

Why? No wonder people try to get out of it. Well let's take it back! There is no reason why we can't play. It's not childish. There is something built in to humans to play, to explore, to learn new things.

So that's what I'm doing. I work with a dragon boating team, on their landing training. Based on the strength requirements for the sport, I have them doing a mix of upper and lower body exercises, all with emphasis on the abs. Above all, I've tried to keep it fun. I bring in big balls, little balls, even tiny balls into the dance studio I rent. Last week they were standing on balance domes and playing hot potato. We do bodyweight suspension training, use agility ladders and play with hula hoops.

I also teach a hoopdance class afterward. Everything is based on the science of exercise and the results of a fitness evaluation for each person, but after that, it's about play. Movement is meant to be enjoyable, not drudgery. Our bodies are designed to move and even if there is arthritis or pain, movement is better than no movement. Studies have shown that exercise helps people manage arthritis.

I don't believe we have to run marathons to be fit, nor do I think we have to be beat up to be fit. Increased heart rate is good, sweating is good, and to create change within the body... some muscle fatigue. It's all good though -- Don't you remember coming in from playing for hours and feeling a little wiped out? That's it!

Go play.

A hoop and a song

Camo-lot

 What do you do when things go wrong? You can wish for better days, but instead of wishing, take action and make it happen. Exercise has been shown to improve mood, and other benefits such as improved fitness can help us take on what life dishes out. 

The Dreamer

Lift some weights, climb ropes, go for a run, take a hike or hoop it out. Hula hooping, or hoopdance is exercise yes... effective for weight loss or maintenance and also resetting your entire mood and outlook. But we call it fun. Exercise can be a turn-off for some people who envision endless hours going nowhere on a treadmill. So let's just call it play, shall we? The correctly sized adult hoop will serve you well, but you can also take it a step further and choose one that expresses your personality. Then all you need are the songs that move you, and the smiles will come. It doesn't matter how old you are or what you can do. Reconnect with the inner child we all have. The key is believing -- but don't wait! A healthier mind and body comes from your own actions, and won't arrive as if by magic. Try it today. Take a hoop for a spin, and turn back the clock!

Wonderland

The Queen

The Painter

The Bravest

Magic

The Miner

Behold! Your queen...

All color combinations available on non-collapsible adult hoops, 4-piece sectional hoops, and 8-piece travel hoops. Camo-lot (white/grey camouflage with gold glitter) and Warrior Princess (pink camo with silver glitter, not pictured) are limited edition hoops. Standard size is 42", and varying sizes smaller and larger are available, based on your needs today. 8-piece hoops can be used with fewer sections, so as your ability increases, the size can decrease without getting another hoop. Quite possibly, a "happily ever after" for you and your hoop.
You can get your hoop from this Moxie Fantasy Series in the hoop style of your choice, or any other available color combination by clicking here or going to the Shop page.

The Fairest

Here's a Fitness Class You Can Get Into

Get in the circle, get in the hoop. You've heard about it and how it has helped people shed pounds and transform their lives, and how celebrities use it to stay fit and have fun. Did you see Catherine Zeta-Jones hooping with Ellen? With the right size hoop and clear instruction, everyone can learn to hoop, and you can get this right here in Oakland County. Right now.

But don't wait! We're getting started. You still have the opportunity to join us if you contact the registration office by phone or in person.

Class begins February 27, from 6:10-7:10pm. Incorporate fun, technique and weight-loss in this fat-burning hula hoop exercise class! Learn waist hooping, hip hooping and more to get a full-body workout. Instruction includes techniques to get the hoop spinning and choosing the right size hoop for you. Class is a workout that is fun and effective! No prior hooping ability necessary. Online registration closed February 25. You may register for remaining classes (pro-rated) by contacting the City of Wixom, Jodi Gallo, at 248-624-2850 or in person at 49045 Pontiac Trail, Wixom, MI 48393 from M-Th. 7:15 am - 5:30 pm.