When did you start hoopdancing? & Why did you think it is a good idea?

I started hooping about 6 months ago in October 2009 thinking that it might just be a fun way to do a bit of exercise.

Did you find the beginning easy? Did you ever think you would get to hoopdance as well as you do now?

At first I could barely get the hoop to stay up, was completely exhausted after the first session, and covered in bruises! I certainly never thought I’d be hooked.

Has hoopdance changed anything in your life?

Hooping gives you a really thorough workout, but when you’re having such a laugh you just don’t realise – it’s like secret fitness training! I feel so much fitter than when I first started, my clothes fit better and my stronger stomach muscles mean my back doesn’t ache any more.

Do you often get frustrated when things do not work with the hoop? How do you get over that frustration? What motivates you to keep trying?

I love a challenge, but trying a new move for the first time and not being able to do it is really frustrating. Sometimes it just takes a few more goes to get it and other times I can really tell if there’s an area of my body I need to work on. If I can’t seem to get a move I slow it right down and just keep doing it, gradually speeding it up. Suddenly (usually when I’m not trying too hard) it works. Once you’ve done it once you know you can do it again and better.

How much time do you spend hooping?

I spend about 2hrs a week hooping – not as much as I’d like but the lampshades are getting a bit battered! Bring on the warm weather so I can use the garden.

Have you achieved any of your goals that you had before signing up for the first class? Did you have any expectations?

To be honest I didn’t really think that it would have the impact it has and I thought that it might just be a bit of fun. Hooping has completely exceeded my expectations; I love it and I really miss the sessions during holidays.

Have you got any favourite moves or any that you particularly dislike? Any really really frustrating ones?

Um – that’s a tough one – I couldn’t say I’ve got a favourite, I like most and love the challenge of trying new and quite technical ones, but I really struggle with anything requiring my left shoulder.

Would you recommend hoopdance to others? What is your advice to those who are just at the beginning of their hoopdance experience?

Absolutely – without hesitation! We have a great time - a good laugh and a workout at the same time. It’s difficult to take yourself too seriously when you’re flinging a hoop in all directions your arms and legs are flying all over the place!

For those just starting out, stick with it and it just gets better. All moves are possible, relax & enjoy. (Oh and a bit of practice definitely helps)