Hula Hoops

Hula Hoops were introduced in 1958 by the Wham-O toy company. The 3-foot diameter plastic hoop with is primarily meant to be spun at the hips, using swaying movements that cause the hoop to stay in place through centrifugal force. The movements resemble Hawaiian Hula dance—the source of the name.

Fast Facts

1. Developed by: Wham-O
2. Common uses: Play, exercise
3. Made from: Marlex plastic
4. Exact historical origin unknown
5. Wham-O sold over 100 million in first year on the market
6. Roxann Rose holds world record for Hula Hooping 90 hours
7. World Hoop Day was celebrated 07-07-07, the next WHD is 08-08-08
8. Hula Hooping has become a popular form of exercise

History

Though similar devices have been in use for centuries—for exercise, archery and play—the modern Hula Hoop was invented in 1957, and marketed the following year, by the Southern California toy company Wham-O (previously known for its sling shot and, later, for the Frisbee). Within the toy's first year on the market, it became a massive worldwide fad with 100 million sold. Recent advancements in plastics had made it possible for the toy to be rigid, light and durable.

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