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Break a sweat: Try this surprisingly fun hula hoop exercise

Looking for a fun and easy workout to do at home? Try incorporating a hula hoop! It not only helps strengthen core ab and arm muscles, but also burns up to 420 cals an hour (uhm, talk about a killer workout!). So if you're getting bored with the same old routine, try these moves at home next time you dont feel like hitting up the gym:

Front n' back

Start by putting one foot behind the other about 3 feet apart. Hold the hoop at waist level and push it off the hip so it begins to spin. With knees soft, start rocking your hips forward and back while keeping the hoop moving. As you become more comfortable, exaggerate the forward and back move.

Reps: 3 reps for 1 minute each

The sun rise

Stand with your feet should-width apart. With your right arm extended, hold the hula hoop to the side of your body. The hoop should be parallel to the ground. Slowly lift the hoop up until it is extended above your head. Slowly bring it down to the starting position. The slower you go, the more burn you will feel!

Reps: 20 reps on each arm

Passing dip

Hold on to the hoop lightely in your right hand, palm facing down. Swing the hoop clockwise so it is parallel to the ground. As you swing it around you, grab the hoop with your left hand when it goes behind your back. For an added challenge, try squating and lunging when passing it from hand to hand.

Reps: 25 reps

Side stance

Stand with your feet a bit wider than should-width apart. Give the hoop a good spin and rock your hips from side to side, making sure the hoop hits at the hip. Remember to keep your tummy tucked and chin up.

Reps: 25 reps

Torso twists

It's time to work those obliques! Bring your elbows up to waist height. With your right hand holding the hula hoop, rotate your torso to the right. The hoop should swing behind you. Return to beginning position. When you switch to your left hand, rotate your torso to the left.

Reps: 10 reps on each arm

So what did you think? Did you try it out? Share in the comments below!

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