The Spin Doctor is In: Hoop it Up

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TO RAYNA MCINTURF, POWER POINTS aren't boring boardroom presentations. They're what she calls the spots on her body that keep her favorite circular prop in orbit. And to perform the kinds of tricks she does — on every inch of her frame — requires quite a bit of power. McInturf first picked up a hoop eight years ago, fell in love and started Hoopnotica, which offers hooping classes in L.A.

She's training others to spread the skill (see box for details), but now you can take her home with two "Hoopnotica Hoopdance" beginner DVDs ($20 each, Acacialifestyle.com). Just make sure you move anything breakable first.

» EXPRESS: How is hoop dancing different from Hula-hooping?
» MCINTURF: Hula-hooping as people traditionally think of it is mainly standing there and spinning a hoop just around the waist. Hoop dance takes it to the next level by using different parts of the body — the hips, thighs, chest, shoulders — picking the hoop off the body and dancing, creating a flow.

» EXPRESS: Were you just born able to do this?
» MCINTURF: I didn't require much instruction, but most people need to have it broken down. It takes anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to learn. We encourage people to give themselves some time for the learning process. You're burning a lot of calories even if you're feeling awkward. You're still getting a good workout.

» EXPRESS: So, why is it such a good workout?
» MCINTURF: A lot of people think it must be good for the core, and it absolutely is. As you progress, it tones your entire body. On top of that, it's a high-intensity cardio workout, but it's low-impact. It allows people to get an incredible workout while still being gentle with their bodies.

» EXPRESS: How can you work your arms?
» MCINTURF: When we do corkscrews and halos, we're spinning the hoop above our heads, on our arms and shoulders. I have biceps I never had before, and my triceps are totally firm.

» EXPRESS: How do you up the cardio intensity of a hoop workout?
» MCINTURF: The faster you go as far as spinning, that gets you into higher cardio. But also just moving around. We start with walking backward and forward, in a circle; and then when you get to dance steps, that takes your cardio up several notches.

» EXPRESS: So, do you think of this more as a dance form or as a workout?
» MCINTURF: It really is both. Dance classes are very regimented, but this is fun and free-flowing. And it's not your typical aerobics class, because you're not thinking about the workout.

» EXPRESS: Are there benefits beyond the physical ones?
» MCINTURF: You can't be unhappy inside a hoop. Mentally, it calms and quiets the mind. If you're feeling that midday slump, it's better than a shot of espresso. One other thing for women is that it's sexy but not overtly so. It's not jumping on a pole.

Photo courtesy Acacialifestyle.com