How to Make Weighted Hula Hoops

Hula hoops of any weight are a fun way to get some really good exercise. Lightweight hula hoops require that you exert more energy to keep them in motion. Weighted hoops may encourage longer workouts because they're easier to keep moving with less effort. Weighted hula hoops are available from most sports equipment retailers for around $70 to $90. But with this easy and inexpensive project, you can create six or seven of your own hoops for a cost of around $25. You can get all the materials you need from department, home improvement or hardware stores.

Form a circle from one end of the PVC tubing to calculate the length you'll need. Set one side of the circle on the ground in front of you. Typically the completed hoop should be tall enough to reach the point midway between your navel and your shoulders. Mark the spot to cut with a piece of masking tape.

Use a PVC cutter or a hacksaw to cut the tubing. Take the masking tape off, and use sandpaper or a file to smooth the cut ends of the PVC.

Pour the desired amount of sand into the tube.

Boil a pot of water, and hold both ends of the tubing in it for 2 or 3 minutes. This will soften the PVC long enough for you to work the ends onto a PVC connector.

Work the temporarily flexible ends of the tubing onto the connector until the ends meet. If the tubing still isn't workable enough, heat the ends in the boiling water again.

Seal the seam between the ends of the tubing with duct tape. Wrap the entire tube with colored electrical tape, if desired.