WENDY IVERSON
Inventor, the Heavy Hoop and related training programs
President, Heavy Hoop, Inc., Dallas, Texas, USA

Wendy Iverson is a self-described “fitness fanatic” who has taught a variety of group exercise and aerobics classes in her own studio and top clubs across the country for more than two decades. Creative and innovative in her teaching methods, Wendy became frustrated with the fact that no fitness equipment was available that provided the user with cardiovascular, conditioning and strength building benefits at the same time. Having weighted down her own body with a variety of belts, vests and similar devices while working out with a traditional hula hoop, Wendy came upon the idea that it would be more benefici al to transfer the weight to the hoop itself. Aware that the circular form of a ring was far superior to the linear shape of the traditional weight lifting bar, Wendy began experimenting in the basement of her home more than 14 years ago.

Starting with a round shape, Wendy went through several generations of development  which included everything from telephone wire surrounded by duct tape to plastic pipe filled with metal pieces. Finally determining that a solid steel rod provided the most even displacement of weight and energy, the real genius of her creation came from the nature of the foam covering. Her design utilizes a floating motion that is user friendly, helping to prevent injury during exercise while still allowing for optimum rotation and movement. This is clearly not the familiar toy that has entertained generations of children and the United States Patent Office has awarded Wendy a patent for the Heavy Hoop. Dr. Ed Thomas, director of physical training and doctrine for the U.S. Army, concluded “The Heavy Hoop” and training system you have developed is a sure winner which can be customized for any populations like seniors, the disabled, children and athletes. Congratulations for breaking new ground.”

The Heavy Hoop is utilized in a series of classes and training disciplines- all of which have been choreographed by Wendy. Workouts target specific body parts such as the abdominal muscles, increase overall cardiovascular health and allow for stretching and toning while keeping proper alignment and form. New classes being offered include “Cardio Pilates” which brings high energy to the popular program and “Cardio Hoop” which challenges even the best-conditioned athlete in an intense 45 minutes of non-stop action.

Wendy Iverson has devoted her life to improving the good health of others. She has worked with instructors to certify their teaching methods, has personally trained seniors (improving their mobility and longevity) and has gone into the public schools to energize moribund physical education departments and to motivate otherwise uninterested kids of all ages. The federal government has approved the Heavy Hoop for inclusion in its PEP grant program at all levels. A finely conditioned athlete in her own right, Wendy has few peers for the level of her aerobic conditioning or intensity of her personal fitness regimen. An accomplished businesswoman with proven success in a number of ventures, she is also the mother of an 18 year old son.