Handmade Hoops by Peachysteve

Thumb Circles

Taken from Chapter 3 of
"Hooping"
An Instructional DVD by Peachysteve

The thumb circle is often overlooked but it's one of those things which can be a key transition move
or even an essential part of more complex moves like 3 beat weaves.

As you'd expect, you'll find it in both horizontal and vertical movements.
It's particularly relevant for hoop swinging.

The move I'll show here is a great introduction to the thumb circle and ideal for practising both hands in both directions.

I'm starting with outward hand circles on my right hand I'll go into outward thumb circles.
In the hand circle my fingers are inside the hoop with my thumb at right angles behind the hoop.
As the hoop starts to rise I bring my thumb inside the hoop.
As the hoop contacts the bottom of my thumb I lift my fingers bringing them upright, behind the hoop.
I'm then doing thumb circles.
To return to hand circles, I wait for the hoop to rise.
Then bring my fingers down and turn my thumb back behind the hoop.
Here you can see the move run.

Remember to learn this with each hand in both directions.

Here is front view of the above thumb circle.
And a left hand inward thumb hand exchange.