The many health benefits of becoming a hula hooper

That's cute. It rhymes with your surname.

That's exactly the playful vibe of hooping culture - a health movement where fun and fitness meet. Remember how much you loved hula hooping as a kid?

Absolutely. My hoop was never off my hips. I was the playground champion.

Well, champ, your sport is trending once more. #hulahoop has had over 950 million views on TikTok, and hooping classes are springing up across Australia faster than you can say Beyonce. She's a confirmed hooper - as are Michelle Obama and Jennifer Hudson.

Hoop hurray! So it's good for you?

The best. A study by the American Council on Exercise showed hooping matches high-intensity favourites like kickboxing and boot camp for both calorie burn and heart rate.

It can torch around 210 calories per 30-minute session, while easier on your knees than higher-impact activities like running.

Hooping's great for flexibility and balance, and works your core and back, arm and leg muscles.

Nice, but can we circle back to the fun part?

Sure. It's what hoopers love most. Hooping is happy. It makes you smile and giggle. It's about feel-good dance beats, colourful gear and convivial company.

Hooping instructors are the best - engaging, energising individuals like Hoop Empire's fabulous Bunny Star in Sydney, or the super-powered Jane Fondle, Flexi Lexi and their squad from Hoops, Thighs & Buttocks, who offer classes nationwide. Classes are non-judgemental and hoopers come in all ages, shapes and fitness levels. Check out the Hoop Force Facebook community and you'll get the idea.

It's been a while. Will it be hard to hoop again?

At first I could barely manage a full 360. But once past the awkward hoop-dropping stages, you settle into a nice rhythm. It's almost meditative.

Any hoop hints?

Yes. Choose an adult-sized hoop as high as your belly button. Also some weight in your hoop helps keep the flow. Not too much though - about 500g is enough, say the experts. You can even buy super-portable collapsible hoops, or a Smart Hula hoop that won't drop off your waist.

My inner child is jumping for joy, and my inner Beyonce is about out to break free. Hoopy times are here again!