Ladies and gentleman, meet Andy Crestodina,
hooping ninja. Andy is one of the most creative and
awe-inspiring new hoopers we've seen in quite a
while. He's one of those types that will break out
completely original moves that have you jumping up
and down shouting "no he didn't!" He's kinda like a
Bboy, but add a hoop.
HP: What does hoopdance mean to you?
AC: It's a fun, physical way to be social and creative.
Music. Learning. Laughing with friends.
HP: What's the most significant change in yourself
since you started hooping?
AC: Actually, it's probably my new friends. I have had a
great time connecting with people over something so
positive.
HP: What advice would you give to a new hooper?
AC: Be patient. Many of the things that look tricky you
might be able to learn in less than a hour. Sometimes
the biggest obstacle is just the mental block. Close your
eyes, forget yourself. Flow with it. Have fun. Don't fight
it!
HP: Tell us your thoughts on men and hooping.
AC: I'm realizing that everyone has their own style,
and the guys I know that hoop (there are quite a few)
have a slightly different style than the women. I think
some moves lend themselves more to man hooping.
Even some hoops feel more masculine. If you bring
your own style, it's not going to be feminine (or
masculine) unless you want it to be. Sometimes I like
to hoop in a more aggressive or dominant way that
somehow feels masculine, but not always. It might
depend on the music. It's dance, so obviously,
dancing is for everyone. Everyone has their own
moves.
HP: What music are you listening to these days while
hooping?
AC: Great question--EDit, Kraddy, Modeslektor, Monkey
Mafia, Bassnectar, etc. Download this one sometime:
BLN by Jahcoozi. whoa.
HP: Where is your favorite place to hoop?
AC: I was hooping on a rooftop on Saturday. It would
have been more fun if the roof was flat. I hoop at home a
lot, but I'm excited to get out more. I've also hooped a few
times in crowded dance floor-type situations, which really
wasn't that bad. Hooping in small spaces is it's own skill.
HP: What does "HooperPower" mean to you?
AC: Friends. Music. Loosening up my muscles. A
source for the best hoops and new moves. I'm a huge
Heather fan. To me, HooperPower is a supportive
community.
