Ok, so how many hoops can you do at the same time?

Hoop dance is not about the amount of hoops you 'can do'. While advanced hoop dancers can and do progress to twin hooping - which does look mighty impressive - I find that the more hoops a person adds, the more one gets into the realm of acrobatic and circus type hooping, and it becomes less about the dance and more about one's technical ability, which I find can be quite restrictive.

Well, what exactly is hoop-dancing about then?

• Hoop-dance is about achieving a connection between the hoop, yourself and the music you are dancing to, breathing new life to the phrase "getting lost in the music

Hoop dance doesn't impose a set routine on you. Nor does it dictate what music you should dance to. You choose your music. You choose your moves. It's a more liberated way of dancing in which you can become both performer and choreographer in a relatively short space of time.* Or it can be a totally personal form of self-expression.

*depending on practice time and personal progression.

I could never hoop as a kid, what makes you think I can do it now?

Firstly, never say never!

Secondly, you probably only ever used a small, kid's hoop. These are notoriously difficult to use because they are so thin and lightweight you can't actually feel the hoop on you: it's like hooping with air (or a wii fit!). Adult sized hoops are much larger and made out of thicker tubing, adding weight to the hoop. The bigger size also means that they rotate slower around you, giving you time to get used to the feel of the movement whilst allowing you to learn the moves at a more manageable pace.

Thirdly, by following instructions, either through DVDs, online tutorials or attending a hoop-dance class, you will quickly pick up correct techniques for a more positive hooping experience.

And if you really believe you can't move, there are loads of off-body moves you can learn, not to mention utilising your chest and upper body. This excuse seems to prevail more with the guys, but just check out the videos of male hoopers to get a sense of what you can do that doesn't involve your hips!

I Can't Dance: I have Two-Left Feet and No Sense of Rhythm!

Unlike some traditional dance forms, hoop dance isn't based on footwork. Sure you get to move around, but most of the work is done using your hips and upper body. Moves are based on co-ordination and muscle memory. Once you gain those, then you can perform what you learn to whatever music you like, thus gaining a sense of rhythm and co-ordination.

Balance is also a key feature, as whatever you learn in one direction, must be learnt in the opposite - sometimes known as outflow or non-dominant - direction. Not only will your body thank you for it, but it will greatly enhance the way you flow to the music and enable you to experience a deeper sense of well-being.

The most important thing to remember is that hoop dance is a personal exploration which should be taken at your own pace.

Do You Need a Qualification To Teach Hoop Dance?

As hoop dance is still considered quite a new dance form, there is currently no official international body for teaching it.

However, there are a few specialist businesses that have identified this niche market and have started to establish themselves as leaders in the hoop dance field. The key names that you'll no doubt come across are HoopGirl, BodyHoops and HoopNotica, who have each developed their own style of hoop dance program which you can learn as both student and later as teacher.

My decision to attend both HoopGirl and BodyHoops teacher training courses was initially purely for personal development. But the enjoyment and inspiration I got from both of them gave me the confidence to be able to teach hoop dance in a structured setting. I have since completed both Level 1 certification in HoopGirl and BodyHoops programs (as well as Level 2 in BodyHoops) and have been teaching hoop dance since January 2009.

There is absolutely no obligation for anyone looking to teach hoop dance* to attend any of these courses. There are many hoop dancers who are content with learning for themselves, by themselves.

However, if you are looking to teach in a leisure /fitness centre, it may be beneficial to attend a formal hoop dance teacher training. Bear in mind that should you choose this route, you will also be required to hold a valid fitness instructor's licence as well.

How do you work out your prices?

There are a few factors customers should bear in mind when buying a custom-made hoop:-

However, in order to cater to different tastes and budgets, I have created several pricing options, so it is now up to you how you wish to decorate your hoop.

How Long Will My Hoop Last?

While I refrain from putting a lifetime guarantee on my hoops, if you follow the care instructions included with each hoop, your hoop can last a good year or so.

However, like most objects, they will suffer from wear-and-tear the more you use it. And if you subject it to vigorous hooping (common when you are learning new moves such as leg-hooping), it is possible to cause hoop breakage.

A list of the most common issues together with solutions is also included on the care sheet provided with each hoop order.

How and When Do I Pay?

I accept PayPal and cash/cheque (British banks only) in hand. You are strongly recommended NOT to post them! If you do, I will not be held responsible if the payment is not received by myself.  For convenience purposes, PayPal is recommended as it's instant and I need never know your bank or card details.

Payment is to be made at the same time you place your order or soon thereafter. I will not start making your hoop until I receive payment, simply because I've made orders in the past where customers have not paid and hoops have subsequently remained uncollected. Furthermore, I may need the money to buy the necessary materials to fulfil your order.

Occasionally, I may accept orders that are not paid for immediately - though only on my discretion. Where this happens, the order will be considered low priority meaning that it may take longer than the stated 14 days or until I receive payment from the customer, whichever applies first.

How Soon Can I Get My Hoop?

I aim to get orders completed within 5 working days. However, this does depend on how busy I am, so expect to wait up to 14 days, including weekends. I will always contact you once it has been made and/or if there will be a significant delay in completing your order within the specified time.

What If I Have a Problem With My Order?

I will only give a refund if there is serious defect upon receipt of the hoop. This will usually be a loose or broken connector or if the bungee snaps (so the hoop comes apart while spinning) within the first 6 months of you using the hoop. If you still want the hoop, send the hoop back and I will make the required repairs free of charge.