How to Do the Uwehe in Hula

The uwehe is a hula move that requires both balance and grace. Though it's an advanced move, you can master its basics in a single session. If you're new to hula, you should first learn how to do the kaholo, or traveling walk, as well as how to do the ka'o, or sway in place.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Stand with your feet approximately hip-width apart, in a relaxed yet erect stance. Bend your knees to sink down to your dancing position, or ha'a. The amount you bend depends on which particular style you dance in.

2. Sway your hips from side to side in a controlled manner. Practice the sway, or ka'o, until you can do it smoothly and easily.

3. Lift your left foot when your right hip is at the end of its sway, then bring it back down so it's fully on the ground.

4. Rise up onto the toes of both feet, pushing your knees forward as you continue swaying. Keep your shoulders at the same level as you come up onto your toes.

5. Return your feet to the ground and continue your sway to the left. Repeat Steps 3 through 5, this time lifting your right foot, to complete one full uwehe.

6. Continue moving from your left foot to your right foot as you do the uwehe.

Tips & Warnings

• Another way to do the uwehe is to open your knees to the side when you come up onto your toes rather than just pushing your knees forward. The style of your uwehe depends upon the style of the group you dance with, as well as your hula teacher's style.
• If you're practicing the uwhehe by itself rather than as part of a hula, bring your arms in front of your chest, keeping them parallel to the ground. Let the tips of your fingers nearly touch in the center of your chest. This is a standard position for practicing hula moves in place.
• Don't bounce when you do the uwehe.