After the first hula hoop class presented by Blue Pearl Yoga this evening, the oft-repeated word was "fun."
Instructor Rachelle Simons said it is fun, that's why she went from a mom hooping with her four children to a serious devotee of the sport.
"It's a tremendous work out that works virtually ever muscle in your body, from head to toe," Simons said. "As you're doing it, you don't even realize you're doing it because it's so much fun."
The introductory class covered hoop basics, stretching and a bit of actual hip movements to keep the hoop going.
For many of the dozen students, it was the first time they had hooped since they were children.
The last time for Julie Yaeger, "probably not since I was 12, and I won't tell you how long ago that was," she said.
Donna McJury joined the class because she expected it to be fun, relaxing and a chance to get fit.
"I think I'll get more energy," she said. "And maybe a smaller waist."
Simons ended the class with a demonstration of hula hoop dancing, showing off several tricks and techniques, telling class members that they were all capable of learning everything she did.
She then talked about the types and weights of hoops she has available, and which people might consider using based on their hoop plans and abilities. Her hoops are available at luvhoopsonline.com.
The cost for the five-week session is $45 and if there's demand, more classes could be added.
