Powerhoop FAQ

What is a Powerhoop?

Give a workout hoop a large diameter so it’s easy to use, add some weight to give it momentum and challenge the body’s core muscles, and create a wavy inner surface to build muscle strength. Cover it with high-density foam padding and suddenly you have something much better than a toy -- you have a Powerhoop!
Powerhoop is a fitness tool that strengthens and slims your stomach, back, waist, hips, thighs and buttocks. It’s part of a group exercise class that is so much fun it keeps members coming back to class. And it’s a piece of home workout equipment that won’t gather dust!

What can I expect from using a Powerhoop?

Training with a Powerhoop gives you a firmer waistline (stronger core muscles in the abdomen and back), and strengthens muscles in the hips, buttocks and legs. It also improves your condition, posture and balance, and burns fat.

With regular use, you’ll be surprised to discover how quickly you’ll notice the effects, including:

Weight loss/calorie burn
Reduced lower back pain
Stronger core muscles
Slimmer waist, hips, thighs and buttock
Improved coordination.

There’s been extensive research on the effect that the power hoop has on the body as a whole. On average, participants experienced a significant decrease in waist and hip circumference and waist to hip ratio. Average reduction in waist size was 3.35cm with others losing between 5 and 7.5cm around the waist. The hips also shrank, giving an hourglass shape!

I've never been very good at hula-hooping. Can I still attend a Powerhoop class?

Of course you can! After a few spins you will soon realize how much easier it is to keep up a Powerhoop than a regular hula-hoop. Powerhoop’s large diameter makes it easy to use, even for those who never hooped before! The specially designed hoop is designed to keep it turning. The technique is a simple forward and back movement as opposed to a circular motion. Anybody can learn how to hoop, it just takes patience and practice!

Are weighted hoops safe?

Sports safety depends on common sense and on following the manufacturer's recommendations. Weighted workout hoops are meant to challenge the core muscles, causing them to become firmer, stronger and more protective, but this is a process that takes several days of gradually increasing the amount of hooping time. Beginners who overdo will notice soreness and even bruising, which is uncomfortable, unnecessary, and gives hooping a bad name.

It is recommended that you do not use the weighted hoops while pregnant, if you have recently given birth, are taking blood-thinning medication, have a bleeding disorder, if you have advanced stages of osteoporosis, any spinal injuries or have had any recent surgery. Please check with your doctor if in any doubt.
For more about hooping safety, please click here.

I’m not very fit - does that matter?

Powerhoop is suitable for almost everyone – no matter what age, size or fitness level. The classes have been designed to improve your fitness. The difference with the Powerhoop to other programmes is that it is a full body workout which is low impact so there is no stress to the joints. This makes it a perfect workout for everyone - including older clients, those wanting to boost or improve fitness levels and those recovering from injury or illness. You can start with gentle, low intensity movements and work at your own pace. Most people find that their fitness levels improve over the course of just a few weeks!

What should I wear to a Powerhoop class?

Comfortable, easy-to-move in clothing. For your own comfort you may wish to wear a body suit/all in one, under your clothes, or a long t-shirt, or high waisted joggers as the powerhoop will make your t-shirt rise up and I want you to be as comfortable as possible during your class.
Comfortable footwear - trainers prefferably. No heels or sandals!

Do I need to book before coming to Powerhoop classes?

Yes. Due to the space needed to use the hoops safely and effectively, I have limited numbers to 22 people per class. All information regarding booking for the classes can be found here: https://www.oliviasweeneyfitness.co.uk/powerhoop-classes.php