ABSTRACT
Since
centuries ago or even more, the hula hoop has been practiced by people to keep
their good health while having fun. Curiously, this simple toy made by a
plastic ring, also previously made by a circle of willow, rattan, grapevines or
stiff grasses, is subjected to several high and complex physical laws that make,
at the same time, possible its beautiful movements. Physical laws are opposing
and/or accompanying the movement of the circle-hoop-ring, such as gravity,
centripetal force, friction, speed or velocity, and acceleration, in a torque
or tendency to rotate. Specific muscles of the body are activated during hula
hoop dancing and a general cardio exercise is happening. On the other hand, a stimulation
of creativity is also occurring to make a mathematically reasonable and
beautiful flow of movements for the own enjoyment or to make a performance for
other people’s enjoyment. Then, the dancer with a hoop is moving the ring
around several parts of his/her body (waist, core, shoulders, neck, arms), also
rolling it over the body like a wheel, making waves in different axis, tossing
it to the air or floor, etc. and dancer can jump him/herself through the hoop,
or stealing its movements with his/her body. While motor learning happens,
specific areas of the brain are activated differently during trials of
learning. Then flow and fluid movements become automatic in an asymmetrical way
considering our hand preference. However, for getting all this benefits, it is
required a controlled practice in children and adults, that means a smooth and
not violent, reasonable and measured practice in time and intensity and not
negligent or irresponsible. Otherwise, some lesions have been described in
literature.