How to Make a PVC Hoop

Hooping with a weighted (or unweighted) PVC (polyvinyl chloride) hoop is a fun outdoor activity and workout. Making your own PVC hoop is cheap and easy. All the materials can be obtained at your local hardware store for only a few dollars. Using different colors of electrical tape, you can decorate your PVC hoop in any number of different ways. This is a very kid-friendly activity.

Things You'll Need

• PVC tubing -- 1-inch diameter (10 feet for an average adult)
• Insert-connectors -- 1-inch
• Colorful electrical tape
• Hair dryer

Instructions

1. Heat both ends of the 10-foot length of PVC tubing until they soften slightly, using the hair dryer.

2. Place the insert-connector between the two soften ends and push the two ends together until they meet, forming a hoop.

3. Tape tightly over the seam where the two ends meet.

4. Decorate your hoop using the colored electrical tape. Wrap the hoop using different colors and patterns until you are satisfied with the results.

Tips & Warnings

• Add weight to your hoop by pouring a cup of water or sand into the tubing before connecting the two ends. By making the hoop heavier you can increase the difficulty of your workout. The weight will also slow the rotation of the hoop, making it easier for beginners.

• You can make hoops of any size by simply changing the length of the PVC tubing that you use. This will allow you to make hoops for a person of any age or size.

References

• "New York Times"; Hooping Already Has Its Own Jane Fonda; Sean D. Hamill; March 9, 2010