Hula-hooping has come a long way, especially in recent years with more and more adults joining in on the fun! Hula-hooping improves your balance, flexibility, and coordination, all while strengthening your core muscles. Hula hoops are simple to construct and they are thin enough to store easily, which makes hula-hooping a perfect on-the-go RVing activity. So whether you’re hula-hooping for fun or for fitness, make your own hula-hoop and discover an enjoyable way to get everyone active on the road!
What You’ll Need
- Irrigation Tubing (coils can be found at most hardware stores, such as Lowe’s or Home Depot)
- PVC Tube Coupling/Connector (make sure you get the same size as your tubing)
- Tape Measure
- Pipe Cutters or Hacksaw
- A Pot of Boiling Water
Determining Your Measurements
To figure out what length to cut your tubing, you’ll need to figure out the circumference that your hula-hoop needs to be. To do so, take your tape measure and measure the distance from your feet to your chest. This number is your diameter. To determine the circumference, multiply your diameter by pi (3.14). The average circumference for an adult hula hoop is 126”, while the average for a child’s hula hoop is 88”.
Cutting Your Tubing
Now that you know the circumference that your hula hoop needs to be, you are ready to cut your piping to length. Use your tape measure and mark off where to make your cut. Then, take your pipe cutters or hacksaw and get to work! It may take some time, so be careful and don’t rush. If needed, sand down any sharp ridges that are left after you’ve completed your cut.
Assembling Your Hoop
Insert one end of your tubing into a pot of boiling water for about 30 seconds to soften the PVC. Once heated, you’ll need to work quickly because the second you remove the tubing it will start to cool down and become less pliable. Remove from the boiling water and insert the softened end of the tubing into your PVC connector. It should be a snug fit so you may have to push them together with some force. Then, repeat the process by dipping the other end of the tube into the boiling water and securing it into the other end of the connector. As your tubing cools, the seal will strengthen and your hula hoop will be ready for action!
Weights & Sound Makers
If your intentions are to hula hoop as an exercise activity, putting “weights” into the hula hoop can increase the difficulty and give you a more challenging workout. If you are making a child’s hula hoop, sound makers can add a fun and enjoyable element too! Weights and sound makers can be created with a variety of materials, such as small beans, corn kernels, sand, rice, and even water. If you want to add these to your homemade hula hoop, put them into your tubing before sealing the final end of your tubing to the connector.
Decorating Your Hula Hoop
Give your homemade hula hoop some flare! Unless you’re okay with a plain ol’ hoop, pick up some funky colored tape or glitter tape and get creative with your new hula hoop. Electric tape, gaffers tape, or hockey tape works best as it provides you with grip. You can also use some paints and markers to decorate your hula hoop.
For another fun creation to make for your RV adventures, check out these awesome marshmallow shooters!
