Learn to use Poi
On this page you can read some instructions for learning how to use POI.
Basic moves
Forward Circle:
Begin this move by putting your arms to the side and slowly circling your wrists forward, letting the ball and tail follow in a natural rhythm. To ensure that the cords do not tangle, aim to keep you palms facing down and forward. Also, keep both POI circling in the same time and rhythm.
Backwards Circle:
You guessed it! It’s the same as the forward circle but this time, circle your wrists backwards while keeping palms facing down.
Figure 8:
To do the figure 8, start again with the forward circle. This time when you bring your arms forward out of the circle, cross them over in front of your body, like making a figure 8. Swing back into the forward circle position and start again. It may help if you count the beats.
Split Timing:
This is a useful skill to develop which will help add variety to other moves. Basically, in the Forward and Backwards Circleyou will notice that the POI has been moving in unison. Split time is when the POI alternate out of sequence. For example, on the Forward Circle, one ball will be at the top of the circle while the other one is ‘following’ it at the bottom. To try this type of timing, simply speed one up arm’s movement until both are working as opposites. As soon as you have mastered this, try moving from synchronised timing to split timing and back again.
Turning:
This is a good move for changing the direction of your swing. Begin by doing a forward swing. Next, when the POI is moving forward and nearly at the bottom of the circle, step forward with your right foot and do a 90 degree pivot turn to the left. You should now be facing the opposite direction and the POI should be moving in a backwards circle. Repeat the same moves and get back to where you started.
Butterfly:
Start this by doing a Forward Circle. Next slightly change the angle of the circles so it is actually moving inwards. Slowly bring your hands closer together in front of your body, with one hand slightly above, until they are nearly touching. With the right groove the POI won’t touch and a butterfly will appear.
Alternating Butterfly:
Begin with the getting into a nice steady butterfly rhythm. Next, to start alternating arms, wait until your hands come together at the bottom of the circle and on the upsweep, allow one hand to swing over the shoulder, and complete this portion of the butterfly behind the head. On the next upswing bring that hand forward again and back into position. Complete a cycle of the butterfly then repeat again with the other arm.
Mexican Wave:
The Mexican wave is achieved by doing an alternating butterfly, but this time, you do this without any rests of the butterfly in between.
Overhead Butterfly:
Now, instead of alternating your arms like the Mexican wave, swing both arms overhead together at the same time. Believe in it and you’re bound to pull it off!
2 Beat Weave:
This is an interesting move that once mastered, will add great flair to your routine. It basically is the Figure 8 you already know but this time; try to get the POI moving out of sequence.
Tips for success:
Everyone knows the old saying "practice makes perfect". Well, if you want to master POI, you will have to practice, practice, and practice. In the beginning, it’s not easy, especially when you hit yourself! But don’t worry, Poi’s unique design will make it easier for you and you will soon be swinging with best.
Take your time and enjoy!