Deb Harvey is Steam Punk Gypsy.
She is a ‘hooper’ and she would like to dispel the myth.
“It’s not all vigorous exercise,” Ms Harvey said.
“The style of hooping we do at the classes is called Hoop Flow Dance.
“It’s more like Tai Chi.”
Ms Harvey insists anyone can do it, no matter your age or fitness level.
“I love working with seniors and I love to get families together. Bring your mum and your teenage daughter,” she said.
Ms Harvey runs Hooping Classes as part of Ipswich City Council’s Active and Healthy Ipswich program.
Physical activity is vital, no matter your age, weight, health problems or abilities.
“As you get older, everyone has something. I have weak bones. So what? Get off your bum and do something. Try something new, be active, get outside your comfort zone,” she said.
“I would encourage anyone who is reading this, come and have a go and have a laugh.
“Come and forget all your worries for just half an hour.
“I love to see people’s faces light up when they finally find their flow. You can see the moment on their face where they think ‘I can do this’.”
Ms Harvey took up the hoop after visiting a music festival at West End in 2012.
“I knew a friend who was a lot older than me and she was going, so I thought, let’s go,” she said.
“There were a lot of hoopers and fire twirlers there. I watch the hoopers and I thought, yeah, that’s me. It was fascinating.
“I had only done hooping as a kid but the young ones there were so supportive. They really gave me the confidence to step outside my comfort zone, because it was daunting at first.”
WATCH BELOW: Steam Punk Gypsy practicing.
WATCH BELOW: Internet sensation, hoop guy from Britan’s Got Talent
Hula Hooping is a great all round fun exercise for all ages. Great for core and muscle strength, coordination, stress and weight loss. Come along and try a class.
Where: Robelle Domain Parklands, 155 Southern Cross Circuit, Springfield Central.
When: Every Tuesday 8-9am and Every Saturday 2-3pm
Cost: $5
Classes are aimed at 15 years and over. Please sign up here.
Swing and twirl into Ipswich First
