How to Do Hula Dancing for Fitness

Hula dancing is believed to have been done for over a thousand years. Tradition hula dancing was part of Hawaiian ceremonies where the dancers told a story through their movements. Styles of hula dancing include traditional and modern, and hula is often performed as entertainment in Polynesian shows and luaus. Learning the graceful movements of hula dancing is also a great fitness regimen which provides cardiovascular benefits and helps tone hips and abdominals.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Take a hula lesson. You don't have to be on a Hawaiian island to find hula lessons. There are community classes, dance studios and fitness centers which teach hula dancing for fitness. Consider buying an instructional DVD on hula dancing. Many DVDs incorporate aerobic moves into the hula dancing to make the workout more difficult.

2. Learn some basic hula dance moves. Hula dancing is made of several basic moves, and it's important to learn the basics before moving on to combinations. Learn the names and how to perform the kaholo, hele, kao, uwehe and lele to start.

3. Move the hips. Hula dancing involves swaying the hips in combination with arm motions and footwork. It may seem difficult at first to coordinate all movements at the same time, but with practice it can be accomplished.

4. Use traditional Hawaii music. Listening to music of the islands will help you develop the rhythms of the movements. Practice keeping pace with the music.

5. Increase the intensity. Increase the speed of the movements. Create routines to prevent boredom. Put different combinations of dance moves together. You do not have to do every move perfect. The goal is to get a good workout from your hula dancing.

6. Have fun. Workouts should not be a chore, and hula dancing for fitness is a fun way to get in shape. Put on a traditional hula dancer outfit. Wear a lei and a grass skirt. Dance for 20 to 30 minutes several times a week to gain fitness benefits.

Tips & Warnings

• Stretch before you begin hula dancing. Pay particular attention to stretching your hips and back.

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