Poi Dancing: The Beginner Series Course Syllabus

This beginner-friendly poi dancing course introduces you to the fundamentals of this captivating movement practice. Over approximately 15 hours, you'll progress from learning basic safety and equipment principles to creating and performing your own fluid poi routine. Whether you're interested in flow arts, performance, or simply exploring a new hobby, this course builds confidence through hands-on practice and clear instruction in essential techniques.

Module 1: Introduction to Poi Dancing & Safety

Discover the rich history and cultural roots of poi dancing, originating from New Zealand Maori traditions. Learn how to select appropriate poi equipment for beginners, understand safety protocols to prevent injury, and set up a proper practice space with adequate room for movement.

• History and cultural significance of poi dancing
• Types of poi: beanbag, feather, and glow poi
• Choosing the right poi weight and size for beginners
• Essential safety precautions and injury prevention
• Setting up your practice space

Estimated time: 2 hours

Module 2: Foundational Techniques - The Basic Swing

Master the fundamental swing movement that forms the foundation of all poi dancing. You'll learn proper grip, arm positioning, and body mechanics to achieve smooth, controlled swings. Practice both vertical and horizontal swings to build muscle memory and coordination.

• Proper grip and hand positioning
• Vertical swing mechanics and practice drills
• Horizontal swing development
• Troubleshooting common swing mistakes
• Building rhythm and consistency

Estimated time: 2.5 hours

Module 3: The Weave - Core Movement Pattern

Learn the weave, one of the most essential patterns in poi dancing. This module breaks down the weave into manageable steps, helping you understand hand patterns, timing, and the figure-eight movement that creates this beautiful foundational technique.

• Understanding the weave pattern and hand positioning
• Two-hand weave introduction
• Alternating hand weaves
• Increasing speed and fluidity
• Common weave transitions

Estimated time: 2.5 hours

Module 4: Spins and Flowers

Add visual flair to your poi dancing with spins and flower patterns. Learn how to create controlled rotations and the flower pattern, which adds complexity and beauty to your movements. This module combines the techniques from previous modules into more advanced combinations.

• Introduction to poi spins and rotations
• Forward and backward flowers
• Double flower patterns
• Combining flowers with swings and weaves
• Creating smooth transitions between patterns

Estimated time: 2.5 hours

Module 5: Building Movement Chains & Transitions

Connect individual poi movements into flowing sequences. Learn how to transition smoothly between swings, weaves, spins, and flowers. This module focuses on developing control, timing, and the ability to chain moves together for a cohesive performance.

• Transition techniques between different patterns
• Building 4-count and 8-count sequences
• Developing body flow and grace
• Practice drills for smooth transitions
• Common beginner transition errors

Estimated time: 2 hours

Module 6: Rhythm, Timing & Music Integration

Synchronize your poi movements with music and rhythm. Explore how to count beats, find the music's tempo, and dance in time. This module teaches you to use rhythm as a guide for your practice and performance.

• Music basics for poi dancers
• Counting beats and understanding tempo
• Dancing on and off the beat
• Selecting music for practice and performance
• Connecting movement to musical phrasing

Estimated time: 1.5 hours

Module 7: Choreographing Your First Routine

Create and choreograph your own beginner poi routine using the techniques you've learned. This capstone module guides you through the creative process, from selecting music and planning your sequence to rehearsing and refining your performance.

• Choosing music that matches your skill level
• Planning your routine structure and transitions
• Choreographing a 60-90 second beginner routine
• Rehearsal techniques and refinement
• Preparing for performance or video recording

Estimated time: 2.5 hours

Prerequisites

• No prior poi dancing experience required
• Basic physical fitness and mobility
• Access to beginner poi equipment
• Adequate indoor or outdoor space with at least 6 feet of clearance in all directions

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Perform smooth, controlled basic swings and weaves with proper technique
• Execute poi flowers, spins, and basic transitions with confidence
• Create fluid chains of movements that flow together smoothly
• Choreograph and perform your own 60-90 second poi routine to music
• Practice safely and prevent common poi dancing injuries
• Progress toward intermediate poi techniques and more complex patterns