A great way to stay in shape and have fun is hooping. What’s old is new again, as the hula hoop has become the mainstay of the outdoor DIY health movement. If there has been one person who has led the hooping revival in this city, it’s Melissa Campbell, founder of the Hoopathon of Buffalo. The hoopathon is the culmination of a decade’s time, where Melissa has dedicated herself to the art of the hoop and the health benefits that ensue. Not to mention the social aspects that are part of the trend.
The Hoopathon started as a way to bring people together, encourage them to be active and creative, all while raising money for a good cause.
Each year, the Hopathon raises money for non-profit organizations throughout the region, including Roswell Park Cancer Institute and the The Buffalo Cherry Blossom Festival. The event also managed to donate 110 hula hoops to Buffalo Public Schools in conjunction with The Wellness Institute. This year the benefactor is the Buffalo Infringement Festival.
Each year, the Hoopathon attracts hoop competitors, hoop enthusiasts, dancers, and drummers. It’s a real blast to participate in this endurance contest. It’s also a lot of fun to watch!
Aside from hooping, there will be myriad activities including
- Learn how hoops are made
- Hoop bead craft table with Ultra Hoops & Wellness
- Learn how to design a necklace using hoop tubing, then decorate the creation with fancy tape
Hoopathon of Buffalo | Saturday, July 30, 2016 | 9 am to 1 pm |The competition starts at 10 am | The Bidwell Farmer’s Market in the Elmwood Village | There will be hoops of all sizes for everyone to use but please feel free to bring your own hoop and share your tips and tricks.
3 age brackets: adult (18+), young adult (13-17) , child (12 and under) | Prizes for the winners | Entry fee: $5-$7 | See Facebook event