Hardcore Hooping, Portland

Out in the park, its not uncommon to see dozens of people swinging their hips, hooping and laughing. They're not going for a Guinness Book record or even competing: they're burning calories in a fun way. It's what Hardcore Hooping is all about—getting people together for energetic, healthy activities that shed pounds. The hooping experts design their multi-colored hoops specifically for the task, weighting them perfectly with water. That water swooshes around while hooping, creating a rhythmic sound that fosters a trance-like focus. Besides burning calories, hoop exercises build core strength and improve balance and flexibility. Hardcore Hooping also offers rental packages for events and leads high-energy fitness classes.