A hula hoop is a ring made of metal, wood or plastic that can be rotated on any part of the body including hips, chest, neck, shoulders, thighs, knees, arms, hands, thumbs, feet and toes. It is often filled with rocks or other materials to serve as weights and carry the hoop around the body. In addition, it can be rotated off the body as well.

The modern hula hoop was invented by Arthur K. Melin and Richard Knerr in 1958. Today the hula hoop is gaining popularity among adults and is generally referred to either as “hoopdance” or “hooping.”

Hooping is an artistic movement using a hoop either as a prop or dance partner. The hoops are used to combine technical moves and tricks with freestyle or technical dancing and are typically accompanied by music. This type of dance is inspired by forms such as rhythmic gymnastics, hip-hop, fire dance and poi, among many others.

Kulik will teach user friendly steps and choreography for dancing with the hula hoop.

The Oak Park Arms is a rental retirement community which provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay – a weekend, a week, a month or longer.

The workshop is free and open to the public. For more information, call Heather Lindstrom at 708-386-4040.