A hoop that is too big swamps a small gymnast; one that is too small makes rolls and rotations cramped. Hoops come in many sizes, from 55 cm for young children to 90 cm for tall seniors, so it's worth sizing carefully. Here's how.
The hip-bone test
Stand the hoop upright on the floor beside the gymnast. The top of the hoop should reach the hip bone, about 2 cm below the navel. Hoop sizes are given as the inside diameter, so a hoop sold as 70 cm measures 70 cm across the inside.
If the gymnast is between two sizes, younger children usually do better with the smaller hoop, which is easier to roll and catch. Older gymnasts who are still growing can take the larger size.
Competition rules by division
From the USA Gymnastics apparatus regulations, which follow the FIG norms:
| Division | Inside diameter | Minimum weight |
|---|---|---|
| Seniors | 80-90 cm | 300 g |
| Juniors | 70-90 cm | 300 g |
| Children and Hope | in proportion to the gymnast | 225 g |
The hoop may be wood or plastic, as long as plastic keeps its shape during the routine. Rules change between seasons, so check the current rules for your level.
Training hoop or competition hoop?
Many gymnasts own two: a light hoop for classes and practice, and a regulation-weight hoop for meets. Our plastic hoop weighs 148 g and comes in 55, 60, 65, 70, 75 and 80 cm. It's a durable, light training hoop, ideal for beginners, classes and home practice. For competition, juniors and seniors need a hoop of at least 300 g, and children's divisions at least 225 g.
How to tape a hoop
The rules allow the hoop to be fully or partly covered with adhesive tape of any color except fluorescent. Taping protects the hoop, improves grip and makes the hoop stand out under arena lights.
- Clean the hoop and remove any dust or particles from inside.
- Start at the join, where the ends of the hoop meet, so the tape hides it.
- Wrap at a steady angle, overlapping each turn by a few millimeters.
- Keep the tape tight but not stretched, or it will shrink back and wrinkle.
- Finish at the starting point and press the end down firmly.
Our decorative hoop tapes are 20 mm wide and 14 m long. Popular combinations use a base color plus a mirror or glitter tape in a spiral.
Carrying and storing the hoop
Hoops bend if stored under weight or near heat. Hang the hoop on a hook or store it flat, and carry it in a hoop cover to protect the tape on the way to the gym.
See all clubs and hoops, or read our clubs size guide next.