Poi (performance art)

As a performance art, poi involves swinging tethered weights through a variety of rhythmical and geometric patterns.

Some legends indicate that it was first used by men to develop wrist flexibility for the use of hand weapons such as the club-like patu, mere, and kotiate,[2] but recent academic study has found no evidence to confirm this story.

[6] Originally, poi were most commonly made from harakeke (New Zealand flax, Phormium tenax) and raupō (Typha orientalis).

A large knot was tied at one end of the cord, around which the core was formed from the pithy middle of the raupō stem.

In this construction, the outer shell was made of finely woven muka using a pattern based on a fishing net;[8] these poi sometimes included strands that were dyed yellow to form a diamond pattern known as Te Karu ō te Atua (the Eye of God).

Cores are often made of foam or crumpled paper, while skins consist of plastic or loomed fabrics, such as tulle.

Traditional Māori poi is generally performed in group choreography at cultural events, with vocal and musical accompaniment.

Beginners often learn using a simple pair of practice poi, which are typically constructed from soft materials such as socks or stockings that are weighted with soft household objects such as bean bags, juggling balls, balloons filled with legumes, or small toys.

Fire poi use wicks made from Kevlar or Technora or another flame resistant material for the weighted ends.

A scientific study conducted at the University of Auckland showed significant improvements in grip strength, balance, and attention after one month of poi practice.