I have rheumatoid arthritis and fibromyalgia. These conditions make exercise extremely difficult for me. I have permanent damage in my hands, wrists, and feet, so walking is painful and so is anything requiring a grip. I love to swim, but don't have a pool. So I have been thinking hard about what I can do to help me shed some of the weight 5 years on steroids has caused me to gain.
I bought hula hoops! I got a set of two little ones to use on my arms, and a large weighted hoop specifically for exercise for my middle. I loved hula hoops as a kid, and I don't have to hold onto them to exercise, so I thought it would be a good solution.
I'm not well coordinated, sadly. But I have been using the hoops. The arm ones are not bad, but I can't do them both at once yet. It's only been a few days. I am right handed, and I've found I'm pretty good at having the left hoop fly off and hit my curious dog! Luckily the hoops are light, so he ducks and I laugh.
The large, weighted hoop has a wavy inside that is supposed to help me keep it going. I am realizing how many years it has been since I've done this-I can get about two twirls before it falls to the floor. But I am determined. It is fun, the dogs like to watch from a safe distance, and I am laughing while working and I do not have to bear increased wrist pain to do this.
If you like hula hoops as a child, give them a whirl now. It really is fun.