10/12/2026
✨ Breaks & Paddles! This is one of my specialties that I teach in private lessons, and I get requests for it often in both my virtual and in-person classes! In this tutorial, I break down breaks and paddles step by step, but honestly, this is one of those techniques that takes practice, patience, and dedication. Keep at it!
⭕ Step 1: Choose your hoop: I recommend starting with a lightweight hoop with a decent circumference—not too small and not too big. You don't want a hoop that's too heavy because it can make learning this technique more challenging.
A heavier hoop can work while you're learning the basics, but as you progress, you'll want something lighter.
⭕ Step 2: Get comfortable shoulder hooping: Shoulder hooping isn't necessary, but it definitely helps! You'll also improve your shoulder hooping as you work on this technique.
Start by simply playing around with the hoop on your shoulders and getting comfortable with the movement.
⭕ Step 3: Practice your breaks: Once you're comfortable with the hoop on your shoulders, start breaking the hoop back and forth.
You can do a break, let the hoop travel around several times, and then break in the opposite direction. Try it standing still or while spinning!
Once you get comfortable with that, start breaking back and forth without letting the hoop complete a full rotation.
⭕ Step 4: Introducing paddles: As the hoop travels around your shoulders, bring one hand inside the hoop and gently tap the inside as it passes. Your hand isn't really pushing the hoop at this stage—it's just getting used to making contact as the hoop travels around it.
This might feel easier with a larger hoop circumference. It doesn't have to be heavy, but size matters when learning. I always say bigger is better! 😉
⭕ Step 5: Put it all together! Now we're going to connect the shoulder hooping, breaks, and paddles.
As the hoop travels around your shoulders and you initiate a break, bring your opposite hand inside the hoop to paddle. As the hoop travels toward the other side, that hand catches the hoop, allowing you to initiate a break in the opposite direction. More in the comments....
