Hula hoop recipe

Yield: 8 to 10 hoops

Supplies:
- 100' of 3/4-inch flex poly tubing (used in sprinkler systems)
- 8 to 10 double-ended 3/4-inch nipple connectors
- Duct tape for closing hoops (optional)
- Multicolored electrical tape for weighting and decorating hoops

Tools:
- Something sharp that can cut cleanly through the tubing
- Hot water or a hair dryer to soften the tubing (or really strong hands)

To make a hoop:
Measure out and cut enough tubing to make a hoop that, when stood on edge, reaches somewhere between the hooper's bellybutton and chest. (For me, that's between 11 and 12 feet of tubing. Yes, these hoops are larger than toy-store hoops; that's what makes them so fun and easy to use.)

Insert connector and shove hoop edges tightly together. Wrap seam securely in duct or electrical tape. Decorate with electrical tape, being careful not to add so much tape that the hoop gets too heavy for your skills and energy level. (We have hoops with no decoration at all.)

To hula hoop:
Position the hoop at about waist level and give it a good spin. Move your hips slightly to keep the hoop in motion. It doesn't take a big motion, and you can choose to go front to back or side to side or sort of all around. Click here to view many demonstrations.

With MANY thanks to Dana the Coffee Goddess for instructions, tips, and hours of fun!