A Peek Into Hooping Idol 7 – 70’s Week

Welcome to the official week 1 of Hooping Idol 7!  Here’s a little behind the scenes of my personal journey here.

I’m so honored and amazed to be a part of this worldwide competition…the most important event happening in our planetary hoop community right now! There are 21 contestants with such different backgrounds, countries, styles and skills.

Why watch a bunch of hula hoopers do their thing, American Idol style?  Well, it’s very entertaining to watch the videos for one. And the reason why you should, is to vote. There are 4 judges for Hooping Idol 7 who are not only famous for what they do, they are extremely respected in our field, aka “hooping.” Anah Reichenbach, Babz Robinson, Lisa Lottie and Lila Chupa-Hoops will critique all of our videos and judge on: 1. Theme 2. Skills/Flow and 3. Presentation.

It’s quite the challenge to produce a whole story video, complete with a theme, costumes, videography, location scouting, asking for help, getting techie, shooting, editing and uploading…in 4 days! Yep our first video was due on Easter Sunday. No Easter-egging for me this year. I missed chewing off some chocolate bunny ears and my hubby’s 2 big music gigs, trying to get final shots, switching and learning new editing software, and losing most of my finished edited file, while my software crashed over and over and over (I made it into a drinking game, without actually drinking!).

So some funny things happened during my video taping…not the least of which was not funny…getting stopped by a cop/state trooper.

Me, pleading,”I was doing it for my art, officer. Do you want to see the video??”–Officer on a nice BMW motorcycle, “No, you just absolutely can’t be here, ma’mme.” Me, “That’s a gorgeous motorcycle officer.” –it was! He left and I shot a tiny bit more outside of the arbitrary self standing 30 foot of miscelaneous fencing–footage I used, thank goodness!

Weather–pretty gorgeous for the most part…but…We had wind. That makes dealing with light silk veils and hoop release moves, really, really entertaining for retakes!

I started feeling sorry for supermodels. They get to go to exotic locations and be stunningly beautiful, but you don’t see what they have to do to get certain creative shots–ridiculous poses, adverse conditions, etc. Now I’m realizing for real, these are hilarious, hard, and sometimes…an itsy bit dangerous. Really, don’t try some of this at home, lol–just hide the breakables–just saying.

I welcome (sort of, lol) getting out of my comfort zone. Though, this is like stepping out on steroids, with Red Bull, and triple espresso! “Eeeeeeeeeek!” which I reiterated, from one of my fellow contestants.

Luckily the Hooping Idol 7 entrants are extremely supportive of one another in a private Facebook group. Boy when they say no one else knows what’s going on for each of us like our fellow competitors, that is SO true! It’s a secret lounge, so that info gets to stay in Vegas.

Oh, also, I talked to a very pro videographer yesterday who had all to do to not laugh out loud for my request for this assignment: Him: “This will take about a month and around $400-$500.”
Me: “Well I have a “no to low” budget, and it’s due tonight, what would you recommend instead for a video novice that has to learn software and produce a video before my deadline?”
Him: “Adobe Creative Cloud–use a student address and get a great discount otherwise it’s $50 a month.”
Me: In my head, Uh, well I already spent money on an expensive software that doesn’t work for this and Adobe is for uh, pros…and although I can get there, probably not TODAY.
What I actually said, “well I respect what you do, and thank you for your time.” (Yes I studied this stuff in college for my degree, but that was a long time ago, several careers back, and technology has gone through a time warp of amazing new things coming out daily! Yes there’s an ap for that, I tried many, but don’t have a lot of time to piddle around and experiment.)

So that’s it for me at the moment. It’s the wee hours of the night…aka Morning. This roller coaster ride just started. I hope to hang on for dear life, while learning and growing at hyperspeed!

Hey, remember, with your help, I can move on. 6 talented people get cut THIS WEEK! So Please Vote at www.Hooping.org on the “70’s Week video page” when it’s up which will have the specific directions. I’ll post the specific link when I get the info ♥ Thank you in advance ♥

In case you are wondering, without further ado…here’s my entry to enjoy. See if you can spot the cop scene, or if it got edited out!

Also, Yes, I actually do have this album, though I had to borrow a record player. It was my momma’s who this video is dedicated to ♥
YouTube link:   https://youtu.be/hGl6HfHH4Q4

 

Vimeo link: https://vimeo.com/213482617

Hooping Idol 7 – 70’s Week – Che Rippinger from Che R on Vimeo.

And in case you want to get a behind the scenes check-ins when I can, here’s a minute update (which I post on Instagram @hipthehoopla, Twitter @hipthehoopla and my Hip The Hoopla Facebook page and I’m hashtaging, too #hipthehoopla):

Ok, now that I have officially, earned a teeny tiny breather, I’m going to get a little sleep in while its still a bit dark.

Oh…and if you want to see how this all started…here’s the link with my audition video and the start of this process for me:

Che Rippinger in Hooping Idol 7!

♥ Hoop Love, Ya’ll! ♥~ Ché Rippinger, Denver, CO USA

Representing Colorado and our Fab Over 40 Hooping worldwide hoop community group.
4/20/17 UPDATE:Voting has Closed…And I made it to the next round!!!
Here’s the Results
Older part of this post–
****Vote for me today 4/19 until 7pm PST! http://www.hooping.org/2017/04/hooping-idol-7-super-seventies-week/ (scroll to bottom, ✔ check box for Che Rippinger) Viewer votes count 60%! (I’m video #18)~Thank you!!!***


~Che’ Rippinger is Hip The Hoopla‘s CHO (Chief Hooping Officer)/Owner/Founder and head humorist, with heart. She’s been hula hooping since 2008 and founded Hip The Hoopla in 2011 – while teaching, performing and making pro custom dance hula hoops. A dancer most of her life (30+years), Che’ has also been a humor writer/columnist, illustrator and cartoonist for The Denver Post and her Touché! Cartoons have been featured in PLAYGIRL Magazine.


Keep up with Hip the Hoopla with news, #Hoopspiration and special offers. Please sign up now for our special e-mails member list: Hip The Hoopla Circle E-mail 

Also, please follow us on Facebook. We’re even on YouTube(with our own channel), Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedInYelp,and Instagram.  To contact us for group classes, private coaching, premium service packages, VIP days, events, performances or custom professional dance hoops, please call 303-980-6295, visit www.HipTheHoopla.com or e-mail Che@HipTheHoopla.com. (Please do not add us to call/e-mail lists without permission.)

Attitude Is EVERYTHING! 3 Tips to Pop Your Best Prop: YOU!

Hip The Hoopla - Che Rippinger

Oh Snap — Attitude Is Everything! (by Che’ Rippinger of Hip The Hoopla)

Ever see a boring drag queen? Heck no, Honey! Know why? Because “Attitude Is EVERYTHING!”

There’s something really awesome about dancing with flow props: we get to hide behind the moving distraction of an object. It can be mesmerizing. But even the best attention-capturing pretty moves are rather limp noodles of lifeless effort, unless you put your personality and individual stamp on it. How you ask?

3 Quick and Easy Tips

to Boost Your Awesome Attitude,

Increase Your Stage Presence, & De-Stress:

1. When you mess up, make it look like you MEANT to do that! This is one of my favorite “tricks.” Own it. The good news: If you drop the prop, the people watching may just realize how challenging this stuff is, and how much practice it takes to make something look easy and effortless. Ha! If they only knew!

2. Smiles make everything brighter and lighter. Understandably not every piece of music or dance requires a plastered on fake smile, but it sure beats squishing up your visage into what I call my husband’s guitar solo, “Constipation Face.” And I am not immune to this foible–I find myself having to make a conscious effort to stop my own “Muppet Face” (strangely wrapping my lips over my teeth with a concentrated knit brow look like a Jim Henson puppet). Luckily, I weened myself off of “Michael Jordan Face” quite a while back (that’s the one with the tongue hanging out in utter focused “in-the-zone” movement).

3. Have some “mess-up” recovery moves practiced. If you know some pick up tricks when you drop your hoop, or something unplanned happens, it really helps with those awkward, “Oh-Crap-Now-What” moments.

***Bonus Tip #4*** “Fake it, til you make it.” I remember the fear of dropping my hoop during a performance. Well it happened…in front of all of my peers while under the big lights. In my mind it was a slow-motion catastrophe that seemed to last for an eternally long minute. When I looked back at the video, it was a mere split second of real time. And somehow, I kept spinning and swooped my hoop up and got right back into the dance. It didn’t feel very smooth like that from the stage, but I faked it, and apparently, it worked! (See Video below.)

In another scenario, I was in a big variety show and was just as surprised as the rest of the audience, when a professional belly dance friend’s top came undone on stage. Without missing a beat, she gracefully grabbed her goodies before all popped out, and whisked herself off stage. Before we knew it, she danced back on stage and finished beautifully–with her quickly-fixed top, back in tact. After the last beat, she did a playful self boob-grab, hit a double “thumbs-up” sign, winked and curtsied. Now that’s how you do attitude right!

****
Like this article? Please share and follow Hip The Hoopla on social media and spread the hoop love.

****
Che Rippinger of Hip The Hoopla at the Hooping Life Film Premiere


Keep up with Hip the Hoopla with news, #Hoopspiration and special offers. Sign up now for our special e-mails member list.

Sign Up Now

Also, please follow us on Facebook. We’re even on YouTube (with our own channel), Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedInYelp, and Instagram.  To contact us for group classes, private coaching, premium service packages, VIP days, events, performances or custom professional dance hoops, please call 303-980-6295, visit www.HipTheHoopla.com or e-mail Che@HipTheHoopla.com. (Please do not add us to call/e-mail lists without permission.)

Hoop Tip to Keep Your Hoop UP Better!

Hoop Tip:

When you LOOK up, your hoop tends to STAY up (better).

Hoop dance, belly dance and Laughter Yoga…Oh my! 🙂
Come join us tonight for Hip The Hoopla class at 6:30pm for “Cool Hand Flow” theme. Nab your spot in this intimate setting www.HipTheHoopla.com or MindBody Connect mobile app for faster & early check in pricing!
All levels welcome! Limited spaces available.)

Photo: Hoop Tip: When you LOOK up, your hoop tends to STAY up (better).  (Hip The Hoopla's 6:30pm class theme is "Cool Hand Flow"... inspired by one of our new tribe members who you can meet tonight! Grab your spot now www.HipTheHoopla.com or MindBody Connect mobile app. All levels welcome! Limited spaces available.)

Red Elephant Workshop shared a link.

Connect with Hip The Hoopla to book your classes, private lessons, package program, event performances and custom hand-made professional dance hula hoops.
www.HipTheHoopla.com
www.Facebook.com/HipTheHoopla
Che@HipTheHoopla.com or 303-980-6295 (office line)
MindBody Connect mobile app to register for classes on the go

We are also on YouTube, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Yelp, Twitter, Class Pass and Support Local!

January Jump Start – Schedule, Specials & More!

Hip The Hoopla humorous hoop dance fitness classes, performances & custom made hula hoops

Give your goals some jet fuel! Hip The Hoopla is here to help to kick butt on your wellness, weight goals and well-being (a.k.a. Happiness).

Give yourself the gift of health and humor with hooping. Here’s a sneak peak at the January Hoopla! (Warning: Hip The Hoopla promises high doses of laughter, hoop dance, positivity and motivation!)

JANUARY CLASS SCHEDULE:

Group classes (all levels welcome) Tuesdays 6:30pm & Saturdays 10am. January 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, (31-Tentative-depending if Broncos play in the Superbowl!)

JANUARY JUMP START SPECIALS:

♥ $99 January Special= 1 private lesson* + 1 Month of Unlimited Monthly Group Classes (save $71!)

♥ 5 Class Pack $65 (Save $10) (exp. 3 months from purchase)

♥ 10 Class $120 (2 classes Free-Save $30!)

♥ 30 Day Unlimited Group Class Pass $80 (Save $40+)

Stay tuned for Hip The Hoopla’s NEXT big Announcements including:

1.) ONLINE CLASSES! Yes, you asked, and they are in the works! The tentative plan is once a week with a replay (if available)…and also…
2.) ONLINE WELLNESS WORKSHOPS!
3.) A MONTHLY PLAN PACK for those dedicated to wellness and wonderment! (Including your own private sessions, and special surprises, too!)

(*Studio rental and/or on-site travel costs are extra. Private lessons priced for Lakewood location.)

For more information, Please visit www.HipTheHoopla.com , www.Facebook.com/HipTheHoopla , or call 303-919-9280, or e-mail Che@HipTheHoopla.com

How to Get Great Layering And Coordination

Want to get a smooth combination of dance flowing WITH your hoop moves?

Here’s what I recommend at my Hip The Hoopla classes: practice and “get” the thing you want, BEFORE you put the hoop on. Each element may be easy…but when you try putting it all TOGETHER, perhaps a different story. It’s the magical practice of layering (I learned from belly dance). Video* Link Example is below.

Here’s the thing: when you try it all together, one thing will come and one–or several–things may go. Focus on getting just one element in moment. Add another in the combo, then another, then one more (try feet, then hoop, then facial expression, etc.) It’s perfectly o.k. to take a hoop move you have on “auto-pilot,” and add your new thing (footwork, arm movements, turns).

The real secret was already given away: Practice. It’s amazing how quickly we can make something look effortless, with a lot of…EFFORT! Most pros put in many hours…drilling, bonking, dropping and laughing in frustration at themselves while learning new material and making it look easy. You’re not alone.

Watch anyone’s progress. You didn’t start out with a coordinated walk out of the womb. You had to get strength to keep your head wobble up, then roll over on your belly, crawl, get some hand-holding help, then try waddling walking on your own, run into a few table corners, fall down, cry and try it again…all before you could think of hitting the dance floor. And what makes you think hoop dance would be easier than that?! LOL. You got this. I know you can!

I’ve watched some pretty remarkable progress advance with these steps:

1.) Decide you want to do it.
2.) Break down the foundational steps and work on each individually.
3.) Put it together.
4.) Practice and DO it.
5.) Enjoy it when you GET it!

And here’s 4 bonus hints to make leaps in progress:

1.) You can also help your progression along with perfectly visualizing what you want to get.
2.) Video is helpful to see what’s going on (what you ARE doing and what you THINK you are doing, may be two different things).
3.) Writing things down, also helps. (I like adding stick figures and directional arrows with my notes–my personal hieroglyphics!).
4.) Get feedback from a real person. If you can get to a class or a private lesson–in person–great! If not, we can help virtually with an online session. We’re just a click away ♥

P.S. Sanity is over-rated. Enjoy the process. When you nail the thing that’s driving you nuts, you will be so overjoyed. Then you’ll forget all about that, and be on to the next self-challenge.

P.S.S. Hooping is a metaphor for life. You’ll find the things you learn “in the circle” apply to the rest of your issues–really. Funny, but true! ♥

###

Connect with Us! Hip The Hoopla offers humorous hoop dancing classes, private lessons and coaching–both in person, and virtually–for whatever level you are starting at… or want to get to!

Check calendar for Hip The Hoopla class details. www.HipTheHoopla.com/classes

*If you are interested in getting hoops: ready made, custom, twins, multis, collapsible convertibles, polypro, HDPE, or PE (black tubing)…please connect with us for a complimentary hoop consultation (by phone or in person).

Contact us: online at www.HipTheHoopla.com, Che@HipTheHoopla.com, 303-980-6295  / 303-919-9280 cell Latest info, updates, tutorials, events and “Hoopspiration” posted regularly on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/HipTheHoopla

We’re also on Twitter #hipthehoopla, LinkedIn, Pinterest, YouTube, Yelp and Google+
***********

*Here’s that Video (as promised above) from a practice session working on getting layering and belly dance into my hoop dancing. ~Che’ Rippinger
Link: http://youtu.be/Ur_LcQgxK1o

 

YouTube vs. Personal Training

Che Rippinger of Hip The Hoopla humorous hoop dance fitness classes, hoops, performancesI received a call for a young “very advanced” hooper who might want some instruction, “if” it fit her high level of talent. I found myself vulnerably defending my skill level as advanced enough to teach this person–who, from the description, might possibly know everything from YouTube. (Link for my video proof-trying a completely new combination of sword and hoop dance below.)

If we have YouTube, then WHY would we want to pay to train with Live people, on an on-going basis??

1.) The top teachers, instructors, dance companies and various experts who just I have studied dance (30++ years) and many other fields with, have literally, thousands of years of training and experience–combined. And surprisingly, some of of them are not even on YouTube. (What?!)

2.) Next, ALL of the tremendously talented dancers I know–ESPECIALLY my teachers, keep learning, taking workshops, master classes, training, studying (plus reading, watching, observing), etc. I see them there, so I know!

Masaaki Imai wrote about the Japanese way of “Kaizen,” or continuous improvement that is known worldwide in business. A lot of time, money and energy is funneled into whatever expertise we chose to focus on, as we continue to grow, develop and learn new styles, techniques, methodologies and earn certifications. I see belly dance extraordinaire Rachel Brice (and many other brilliant luminary talents out there) at the top of her game–training with others. She has something new to bring to the table every time we come to her workshops. Each time I study with someone, I also get different things out of it, as I am at a new point in my journey as well, on any given day. Take yoga and you will quickly and mindfully “get” this concept. Teachers have teachers. Coaches have coaches. Mentors have mentors.

We all learn from others. Along the way we develop our own styles and ways of doing things that are completely unique to us. You can see me personally in someone’s beginner class (of anything), and I will STILL get something out of it. I call it a “golden nugget,” a good bit of info that I can add to my repertoire of knowledge. It could be an innovative technique of teaching, a warm up stretch, or a way of explaining something so easily, or in a different way than I do, that totally clicks. There are many “Ah-Ha!” moments in all of our paths. And the really cool thing is they can come from completely unrelated fields, and connect with us, too!

3.) Another major point of continual training, is that we do NOT know everything there is to know. No one is a perfect dancer, or perfect anything for that matter. One reason is that “perfect” is a moving target. There can also be extreme variations on what constitutes perfection, depending on who you talk to.

When I trained in martial arts, around the 3 month mark I was feeling a little bit cocky about my skills. When I earned my first black belt, I learned, as any humbled black belt achiever does, we are on the mere precipice of the enormous learning cliff out there! Centuries, cultures, styles–it would be impossible for one human to take the vastness of it all in. Every teacher doesn’t know everything, nor does every student. Hence why we share knowledge, and very often, learn from each other.

Also, even with any expert in whatever field, as the football saying goes, “On any given Sunday…” Meaning that anything can happen, even when you think you know exactly how it will go. Hoopers drop the hoop. Dancers stumble. Pro football athletes mess up their plays. Martial artists can be defeated. Business people can botch a presentation. Donald Trump can go bankrupt, more than once, and still be extremely successful, respected, and very very rich.

4.) Why train with others, instead of in our own little “Box ‘o Comfort?” Learning is Multidimensional. YouTube is a great resource and entertaining rabbit hole of (mostly free) information. It is also an internet “taste” of what many offer professionally. And though there are a multitude of dynamic educational tutorial videos available at your fingertips, is not a real face to face person, with personal two-way dialog communication and feedback, pin-pointing everything you personally want. Plus people absorb and pick up on things can be in so many ways: kinesthetic, auditory, visual, experiential, etc. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” learning, especially when trying to grasp different skills. Each of us can even bounce between styles, depending on the circumstances.

I personally took one hoop class and got hooked. For a year, I practiced on my own and watched some dvds and videos. Then, I went to a workshop with Jonathan Baxter of Hoop Path–and met other real people in the community! That’s when I got serious on my hoop journey. And as with other interests I’ve pursued, I became a sponge for great stuff from every possible source I could afford with time and money.

To be clear: That doesn’t mean that everything I am is from something else. But I combine bits and pieces of my extensive path and experience, molding them into and with my own very unique approach and style. Because I offer what I do, people come to me to help them reach their goals. I listen and do my best to tailor what they want and need, with what I have and bring.  This leads to one of the last reasons to work and train with others…

5.) By supporting others, we all help that field (whatever it is!) grow and develop overall. Since we all have bills to pay (shocking, I know!), our professional lives provide our service/product for income, which helps us continue our expertise, with honor and dignity. I understand that when I register for a workshop or take a class, I help that person get to do what they do best. Without enough warm bodies in the room to complete a minimum to keep them afloat, things get cancelled. As a result, their lives, and ours, are at a loss.

…And on one last, very important bonus note: I take classes with other people, because I want to energetically create a flowing cycle where others in turn, come out and support my classes and professional path. I know I have helped many achieve new avenues of happiness, health and breakthroughs in learning. It’s not for the money that I continue with my Hip The Hoopla business (though I really like being in financial integrity to pay my bills and honor my commitments as best as possible).  The main reason I continue this passionate, and sometimes very challenging work, is because it makes my heart tremendously happy–knowing that I can help others laugh, learn and always…always try something new!

P.S. To that young lady, and everyone else…If I can’t personally help you, I’ll bet I know of, or can get you in touch with someone who can!
♥ Where ever you are on your path, I wish you love, light and educational goodness ♥

~Che’ Rippinger is the business owner, instructor, performer, hoop maker, motivational life & business coach, personal trainer, speaker and CHO (Chief Hooping Officer) of Hip The Hoopla in Denver, Colorado, USA. She is a trained hooper, dancer, belly dancer, fire spinner, 4th degree black belt martial artist (Jeet Kune Do), Laughter Yoga Leader, professionally published magazine cartoonist & national newspaper columnist, social media marketing consultant, jewelry & costume maker. And although she holds degrees, certifications, training, and various honors…there is always room to get personally and professionally better each day!
Book something now with Che’ of Hip The Hoopla. Best way: Call 303-980-6295/303-919-9280 cell, email Che@HipTheHoopla.com or visit www.HipTheHoopla.com
She’s also on many social media platforms: Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Google+, Yelp, etc.
☻Do It! Connect–You could be very happy you did ♥

Link for my video proof-trying a completely new combination of sword and hoop dance on World Hoop Day 2014, as promised:
http://youtu.be/0uGHTNQq8X4

August Hip The Hoopla Classes & News

Hip The Hoopla humorous hula hoop dance fitness classes, lessons, custom pro hoops, Denver, Colorado♥ More Hip The Hoopla info at www.HipTheHoopla.com ♥ and www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla (please “like” 🙂
***AUGUST 2014 Hip The Hoopla Classes: 8/2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23 26 & 30 (Sat. 10am & Tues. 6:30pm)***
30 Day Unlimited Monthly Special: JUST $65! (Save up to $70!! about $7 a class!-purchase ANY day in August–good for 30 days from purchase)*
*(Monthly unlimited Regular price: $75 )
$5 off a custom professional hoop with 10 class card (save $55!)
Private Hoop Training Sessions (in Lakewood)-1 1/2 hours for ONLY $60! (Save $60!)
Blast on your progress and goals. Bring your hoop and dance skills to your next best level-Fast-with Hip The Hoopla…Personalized Attention!
Welcome New Student Yelp “Check In Deal”-save 20% on first class 🙂
**New Private Coaching Plan**–ask about your personal invite–deep discount for our 2nd wave of attendees–limited 10 available–custom tailored, personalized, in-depth dramatic results!
Order your new personalized custom dance hoop(s)* now. Choose from a variety of options in sizes, tapes, tubing and some are collapsible for travel. We even offer some Colorado-made LED hoops, too!
*A complimentary hoop consultation is included with custom orders. You’ll acquire some invaluable advice gained from years of experience! Ready made hoops are also available at class times, by appointment during the week, and some weekend times, too!

+Custom Hoops, Classes, Private lessons, Coaching, Performing, Accessories, Gift Certificates, all available–just ask!  🙂

♥ Check online calendar for performances, classes and hoop jams! www.HipTheHoopla.com

♥ Please RSVP your classes online at www.HipTheHoopla.com or use the MindBody Connect mobile app to guarantee your class space. Drop-in’s welcome with space available.
Contact us for your own hand-crafted custom hoop, too! ♥

+Hip The Hoopla GIFT CERTIFICATES Available for classes, class packs, custom made hoops, private lessons, Hip The Hoopla Hoop-O-Grams, and more!

#########################

~~~Hip the Hoopla Class LOCATION: *Red Elephant Workshop*
244 Sante Fe Drive, Denver CO 80223 (Between 2nd & 3rd on Sante Fe Drive– free on-street parking 🙂

Please allow a few extra minutes to park, sign in, and prepare to hoop

Cost: $15 Per class
OR…Save BIG with a Class Pack….
+$60/5 class card (=$12/class, Save $15!) (good for 3 months from purchase)
+$100/10 class card (=$10/class!, Save $50!!) (good for 6 months from purchase)
+$75 Monthly unlimited (good for 30 days from purchase)
*Private Lessons/Sessions Available $60/hour-includes studio rental*

Please contact for other special offers & group discounts.

Class prep-Bring/Do/Wear: ~Water ~yoga mat ~stretchy snug clothing-the hoop loves sticking to skin & stays up better! A notebook & pen are really handy to remember key moves, hints & tricks. Bring your own hoop, purchase one at class, or borrow one provided at class. FYI: you can order YOUR OWN cool custom color/personally sized hoops for your hooping style and needs–Even collapsible hoops for easy carry & traveling!

Please RSVP your class spot at www.HipTheHoopla.com.
Please Note: A 24-hour courtesy cancellation required for the limited space class spot. You will be charged if within 24 hours of class.

RSVP/Questions/Info/Contact: Che@HipTheHoopla.com 303.980.6295

Hip The Hoopla is available for PERFORMING–special events, private/semi-private personally focused lessons & motivational meetings (way easier than walking on hot coals)… Plus bridal and bachelorette parties! And try out: Hip The Hoopla Hoop-O-Grams–better than a singing telegram–in person or virtual, and way more fun!

More info: www.HipTheHoopla.com

Please “Like,” visit often & recommend Hip The Hoopla on Facebook for schedule, updates, news and cool videos. http://www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla
Also find us on Yelp! http://www.yelp.com/biz/hip-the-hoopla-denver
…and LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/hip-the-hoopla
…and YouTube http://www.youtube.com/HipTheHoopla
…and another YouTube channel with Hip The Hoopla http://www.youtube.com/ToucheToon
…and Pinterest http://pinterest.com/hipthehoopla/
…and Twitter http://twitter.com/hipthehoopla

Recommendations & testimonials are very appreciated. ~Thank You 🙂

We appreciate your interaction and connectivity!
♥ ♥ ♥
2014 is such a great year to Get Your Hoop On!!!

http://hipthehoopla.com/classes/♥

***♥ Upcoming PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE! ♥***
Check online calendar for performances, classes and hoop jams! www.HipTheHoopla.com

Some past performances at:
South Park Music Festival
The D-Note 2014 Winter Hafla Show
Live LiveWell Colorado Fitness Performance Event
Mercury Cafe Denver
With Blue Soul at Boulder Beer Company
Boulder IPA Festival with blues band Blue Soul and The Goonies
One Gathering with rock band Trickshot
Bellies on Fire! Show at Casseleman’s
Boulder Creek Festival after the Boulder Boulder
Lanie’s Clock Tower Cabaret’s “Mythic Summer Circus” with Bella Diva Dance.

♥ Your Personal Hooping Story Invitation ♥
How has hooping inspiring you to be a better person?? It could be laughter, weight, happiness, personal development, health improvement…what ever YOUR personal WIN(s) is (are). Tell us in one easy to type up/ text paragraph.
Please send it in now for your chance to be featured, celebrated and help INSPIRE OTHERS.
♥ ***”Your Personal Hoop Story” Participants will receive a special Hip The Hoopla gift and a discount for classes or hoops! ♥

July Hip The Hoopla Class Schedule

Hip The Hoopla-Humorous hula hoop dance fitness classes, private lessons, custom professional hoops, events & performances
♥ More Hip The Hoopla info at www.HipTheHoopla.com ♥ and www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla (please “like” 🙂
***JULY 2014 Hip The Hoopla Classes: 7/1, 5, 8, 12, ,15, 19, 22, 26, & 29 (Sat. 10am & Tues. 6:30pm)***
30 Day Unlimited Monthly Special: JUST $60! (Save up to $75!! about $6 a class!-purchase ANY day in July–good for 30 days from purchase)*
*(Monthly unlimited Regular price: $75 )
$5 off a custom professional hoop with 10 class card (class savings $50!)
Private Hoop Training Sessions (in Lakewood)-1 1/2 hours for ONLY $60! (Save $60!)
Blast on your progress and goals. Bring your hoop and dance skills to your next best level-Fast-with Hip The Hoopla…Personalized Attention!
**New Private Coaching Plan**–ask about your personal invite–deep discount for 1st attendees–limited 10 available–custom tailored, personalized, in-depth dramatic results!
♥ $$$ OFF the South Park Music Fest! www.SouthParkFest.com promo code: HipTheHoopla

+Custom Hoops, Classes, Private lessons, Coaching, Performing, Accessories, Gift Certificates, all available–just ask!  🙂
♥ Check online calendar for performances, classes and hoop jams! www.HipTheHoopla.com

♥ Please RSVP your classes online at www.HipTheHoopla.com or use the MindBody Connect mobile app to guarantee your class space. Drop-in’s welcome with space available.
Contact us for your own hand-crafted custom hoop, too! ♥

+Hip The Hoopla GIFT CERTIFICATES Available for classes, class packs, custom made hoops, private lessons, Hip The Hoopla Hoop-O-Grams, and more!

#########################

~~~Hip the Hoopla Class LOCATION: *Red Elephant Workshop*
244 Sante Fe Drive, Denver CO 80223 (Between 2nd & 3rd on Sante Fe Drive– free on-street parking 🙂

Please allow a few extra minutes to park, sign in, and prepare to hoop

Cost: $15 Per class
OR…Save BIG with a Class Pack….
+$60/5 class card (=$12/class, Save $15!) (good for 3 months from purchase)
+$100/10 class card (=$10/class!, Save $50!!) (good for 6 months from purchase)
+$75 Monthly unlimited (good for 30 days from purchase)
*Private Lessons/Sessions Available $60/hour-includes studio rental*

Please contact for other special offers & group discounts.

Class prep-Bring/Do/Wear: ~Water ~yoga mat ~stretchy snug clothing-the hoop loves sticking to skin & stays up better! A notebook & pen are really handy to remember key moves, hints & tricks. Bring your own hoop, purchase one at class, or borrow one provided at class. FYI: you can order YOUR OWN cool custom color/personally sized hoops for your hooping style and needs–Even collapsible hoops for easy carry & traveling!

Please RSVP your class spot at www.HipTheHoopla.com.
Please Note: A 24-hour courtesy cancellation required for the limited space class spot. You will be charged if within 24 hours of class.

RSVP/Questions/Info/Contact: Che@HipTheHoopla.com 303.980.6295

Hip The Hoopla is available for PERFORMING–special events, private/semi-private personally focused lessons & motivational meetings (way easier than walking on hot coals)… Plus bridal and bachelorette parties! And try out: Hip The Hoopla Hoop-O-Grams–better than a singing telegram–in person or virtual, and way more fun!

More info: www.HipTheHoopla.com

Please “Like,” visit often & recommend Hip The Hoopla on Facebook for schedule, updates, news and cool videos. http://www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla
Also find us on Yelp! http://www.yelp.com/biz/hip-the-hoopla-denver
…and LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/hip-the-hoopla
…and YouTube http://www.youtube.com/HipTheHoopla
…and another YouTube channel with Hip The Hoopla http://www.youtube.com/ToucheToon
…and Pinterest http://pinterest.com/hipthehoopla/
…and Twitter http://twitter.com/hipthehoopla

Recommendations & testimonials are very appreciated. ~Thank You 🙂

We appreciate your interaction and connectivity!
♥ ♥ ♥
2014 is such a great year to Get Your Hoop On!!!

http://hipthehoopla.com/classes/♥

***♥ Upcoming PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE! ♥***
South Park Music Fest: The first large scale private property 420 festival of it’s kind–Only in Colorado…July 4th weekend-4 day camping passes available…
www.SouthParkFest.com – please use promo code HIPTHEHOOPLA to SAVE $$$ OFF of your ticket!

♥ Check online calendar for performances, classes and hoop jams! www.HipTheHoopla.com

Recent performances at:
The D-Note 2014 Winter Hafla Show
Live LiveWell Colorado Fitness Performance Event
Mercury Cafe Denver
With Blue Soul at Boulder Beer Company
Boulder IPA Festival with blues band Blue Soul and The Goonies
One Gathering with rock band Trickshot
Bellies on Fire! Show at Casseleman’s
Boulder Creek Festival after the Boulder Boulder
Lanie’s Clock Tower Cabaret’s “Mythic Summer Circus” with Bella Diva Dance.

♥ Your Personal Hooping Story Invitation ♥
How has hooping inspiring you to be a better person?? It could be laughter, weight, happiness, personal development, health improvement…what ever YOUR personal WIN(s) is (are). Tell us in one easy to type up/ text paragraph.
Please send it in now for your chance to be featured, celebrated and help INSPIRE OTHERS.
♥ ***”Your Personal Hoop Story” Participants will receive a special Hip The Hoopla gift and a discount for classes or hoops! ♥

June Hip The Hoopla Class Schedule

Hip The Hoopla - Humorous Hula Hoop Dance Fitness Classes, Hoops, Performances & Private Coaching

♥ More Hip The Hoopla info at www.HipTheHoopla.com ♥ and www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla (please “like” 🙂
***JUNE 2014 Hip The Hoopla Classes: 6/3, 7, 10, 14, 17, 21, 24 & 28 (Sat. 10am & Tues. 6:30pm)***
♥ Yelp Check-In Deal: $10 for 1st class
♥ $10 off a custom professional hoop with 10 class card
♥ Private Hoop Training Sessions (in Lakewood)-1 1/2 hours for ONLY $50! (Save $70!)
Blast on your progress and goals. Bring your hoop and dance skills to your next best level-Fast-with Hip The Hoopla…Personalized Attention!
♥ $$$ OFF the South Park Music Fest! www.SouthParkFest.com promo code: HipTheHoopla

+Custom Hoops, Classes, Private lessons, Coaching, Performing, Accessories, Gift Certificates, all available–just ask!  🙂
♥ Check online calendar for performances, classes and hoop jams! www.HipTheHoopla.com

♥ Please RSVP your classes online at www.HipTheHoopla.com or use the MindBody Connect mobile app to guarantee your class space. Drop-in’s welcome with space available.
Contact us for your own hand-crafted custom hoop, too! ♥

+Hip The Hoopla GIFT CERTIFICATES Available for classes, class packs, custom made hoops, private lessons, Hip The Hoopla Hoop-O-Grams, and more!

#########################

~~~Hip the Hoopla Class LOCATION: *Red Elephant Workshop*
244 Sante Fe Drive, Denver CO 80223 (Between 2nd & 3rd on Sante Fe Drive– free on-street parking 🙂

Please allow a few extra minutes to park, sign in, and prepare to hoop

Cost: $15 Per class
OR…Save BIG with a Class Pack….
+$60/5 class card (=$12/class, Save $15!) (good for 3 months from purchase)
+$100/10 class card (=$10/class!, Save $50!!) (good for 6 months from purchase)
+$75 Monthly unlimited (good for 30 days from purchase)
*Private Lessons/Sessions Available $60/hour-includes studio rental*

Please contact for other special offers & group discounts.

Class prep-Bring/Do/Wear: ~Water ~yoga mat ~stretchy snug clothing-the hoop loves sticking to skin & stays up better! A notebook & pen are really handy to remember key moves, hints & tricks. Bring your own hoop, purchase one at class, or borrow one provided at class. FYI: you can order YOUR OWN cool custom color/personally sized hoops for your hooping style and needs–Even collapsible hoops for easy carry & traveling!

Please RSVP your class spot at www.HipTheHoopla.com.
Please Note: A 24-hour courtesy cancellation required for the limited space class spot. You will be charged if within 24 hours of class.

RSVP/Questions/Info/Contact: Che@HipTheHoopla.com 303.980.6295

Hip The Hoopla is available for PERFORMING–special events, private/semi-private personally focused lessons & motivational meetings (way easier than walking on hot coals)… Plus bridal and bachelorette parties! And try out: Hip The Hoopla Hoop-O-Grams–better than a singing telegram–in person or virtual, and way more fun!

More info: www.HipTheHoopla.com

Please “Like,” visit often & recommend Hip The Hoopla on Facebook for schedule, updates, news and cool videos. http://www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla
Also find us on Yelp! http://www.yelp.com/biz/hip-the-hoopla-denver
…and LinkedIn http://www.linkedin.com/company/hip-the-hoopla
…and YouTube http://www.youtube.com/HipTheHoopla
…and another YouTube channel with Hip The Hoopla http://www.youtube.com/ToucheToon
…and Pinterest http://pinterest.com/hipthehoopla/
…and Twitter http://twitter.com/hipthehoopla

Recommendations & testimonials are very appreciated. ~Thank You 🙂

We appreciate your interaction and connectivity!
♥ ♥ ♥
2014 is such a great year to Get Your Hoop On!!!

http://hipthehoopla.com/classes/♥

***♥ Upcoming PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE! ♥***
South Park Music Fest: The first large scale private property 420 festival of it’s kind–Only in Colorado…July 4th weekend-4 day camping passes available…
www.SouthParkFest.com – please use promo code HIPTHEHOOPLA to SAVE $$$ OFF of your ticket!

♥ Check online calendar for performances, classes and hoop jams! www.HipTheHoopla.com

Recent performances at:
The D-Note 2014 Winter Hafla Show
Live LiveWell Colorado Fitness Performance Event
Mercury Cafe Denver
With Blue Soul at Boulder Beer Company
Boulder IPA Festival with blues band Blue Soul and The Goonies
One Gathering with rock band Trickshot
Bellies on Fire! Show at Casseleman’s
Boulder Creek Festival after the Boulder Boulder
Lanie’s Clock Tower Cabaret’s “Mythic Summer Circus” with Bella Diva Dance.

♥ Your Personal Hooping Story Invitation ♥
How has hooping inspiring you to be a better person?? It could be laughter, weight, happiness, personal development, health improvement…what ever YOUR personal WIN(s) is (are). Tell us in one easy to type up/ text paragraph.
Please send it in now for your chance to be featured, celebrated and help INSPIRE OTHERS.
♥ ***”Your Personal Hoop Story” Participants will receive a special Hip The Hoopla gift and a discount for classes or hoops! ♥

3 Reasons Why Happiness Rules…and 3 Ways To Get There

by Ché Rippinger of Hip The HooplaFor more Happy Thoughts Info and Positive Inspiration visit www.HipTheHoopla.com

We all know we should be as happy as much of the time as possible, but do you know WHY?  Here’s 3 BIG convincing reasons & 3 EASY ways to get happy…

1. Happiness affects the rest of what you do.

Think productivity, energy and efficiency. If there is something you are dreading (for example paying your bills or cleaning out an overstuffed closet) think of how excited you are to do it. Think of how exciting anything else might be in comparison, and it’s easy to see where procrastination comes from. If there is something you are happy about doing like going on vacation, notice that even though it takes work and planning time, you WANT to do it, because the outcome is going to be fun.

Any given situation has a mindset that gets locked in, almost instantaneously. Something “good” has “good” thoughts that magnetize towards it. And same with a perceived “bad” situation. You can choose to change up your thoughts, in each moment, to see what all you can think of that’s good during the harder parts of life. Maybe being diagnosed with something doesn’t seem like fun, but if you think of the positive lifestyle choices that you can make to help deal with the “problem,” and know that the results will change things for the better…what a great way to change things up!

2. Happiness affects your body chemistry.

This one’s easy, especially when we look at the detriment that stress has on our bodies. Stress overtaxes our adrenal function, heart, blood circulation, digestion, brain waves and even creates wrinkles! With all that, why not get happy to have better functioning organs and body systems? Endorphins reduce stress, improve the immune system and help heal the body. Happiness is even a pain reducer. The famous case of Norman Cousins using humor to get off of the pain meds and heal the condition that his doctors diagnosed, is one of the many examples of this.

3. Happiness is contagious.

Luckily the vagus nerve* isn’t just for sharing tears and yawns when others do. When someone smiles at you, your own system is triggered, and joy can quietly erupt. When you see a giggling baby, or almost anyone engaged in a hearty laugh, it’s really hard not to smile and also start laughing. That’s a good thing. Think of how many boring company meetings get livened up when humor is used, or something really silly happens. It’s definitely more memorable and we also bond positively in the process. Positive associations are things we generally WANT to gravitate to.

So how can you get happy in more moments of your precious lifetime?

1. Laugh. Giggle. Smile.

It could be with others, reading something funny, or watching YouTube videos. Try what I call “Microwave Minutes.” For the time your food is in a microwave (or heating something on the stove, or waiting in line, etc.), just start laughing. It may be weird at first, but with practice, it will come easier and you will find more and more little opportunity moments to consciously smile and laugh. Bonus points if you try the laughter minute exercise in an elevator, with others!

2. Try Laughter Yoga.

It’s more about the breathing state and not about telling jokes. There are Laughter Yoga variations for all kinds of people, from kids to elderly; businesses to prisons. It’s a combination of the “Four Elements of Joy”: singing, dancing, playing and laughing. Exercises that encourage movement, interaction with others and joy, are prevalent in Laughter Yoga. And more breathing equals more oxygen. Oxygenation to the body’s cells is a huge healthy benefit of deep laughter (which requires big breathing from the diaphragm–easily done with big belly laughing). FYI: disease cannot live in well oxygenated cells.

3. Surround yourself with the positive.

Seek out positive stories, information, people (and unconditionally loving pets). If you have friends who are a joy to be around, you naturally want to spend more time with them (especially over constant “crisis mode” doom people). Conversely, you can BE that person others like to hang out with. More bringing up the “good” stuff in life, or seeing the positive points in any situation, will help you do this for yourself too, so you don’t always have to rely on others.

Whatever works for you to get happy, try it. Even one great session of prolonged laughter could melt away stress and reduce damaging hormones like excessive cortisol.  The other happiness upsides: it can be totally free and no fancy equipment is needed. People may just think you got plastic surgery from all that smiling, especially if a positive attitude and brighter life outlook ensues!

*Check out the movie “Happy” on more info on the positive effects of happiness and the vagus nerve response.

~Ché Rippinger runs Hip The Hoopla, teaching humorous hoop dance with Laughter Yoga, dance-adapted yoga and belly dance. She’s taught, trained, and choreographed in a variety of dance styles for well over 20 years. She teaches group classes, private instruction, consults, performs and also creates custom professional hoops. She is available for consultation on hooping, healing and happiness improvement with positivity, encouragement (and a little butt-kicking) to help you live your happiest and healthiest life. 

Please visit www.HipTheHoopla.com to register for class and get further info on all Hip The Hoopla has to offer! Great “Hoopspiration,” videos and information is also available at www.facebook.com/HipTheHoopla (please “like”), and via e-mail Che@HipTheHoopla.com and phone 303-980-6295.