Hula hooping?

Thank you for your question, it's wonderful that you have found hooping to be an excellent remedy for pelvic pain in pregnancy. Hula hooping is an exercise that strengthens the muscles of the lower body, including the back, hips, knees, abdominal muscles and pelvis, and promotes core stability It is also an aerobic exercise, benefitting your cardiovascular system and promoting fitness. And it's fun!.

The movements of hooping are very similar to belly dancing, which has been used for centuries to prepare women's bodies for birth. (For an excellent DVD on belly dance for birth, see http://www.bellydanceforbirth.com/)

As far as safety in pregnancy is concerned, my advice is to listen to your body and your baby. If it is feeling good to you and your body, it is very likely to be safe for you. Your baby will be gently rocked and may even fall asleep- if your baby seems very active during a hooping session, it may be a signal to you that he/she is uncomfortable. Try stopping and see what happens. You can also tune in and see if you get any messages about your baby's experience. If you have any concerns, talk to you doctor or midwife.

For anyone (pregnant or not) who wants to try hula hooping, it is best to use a large weighted hoop (38-42"). Try hooping to music and you can use your hoop on different parts of your body (arms, legs, neck) to work out. See here for links to a youtube video of hula hooping basics http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EdJgTx0iFeE&feature=fvw

Wishing you all happy hooping!