Move over aerobic dance, because hula workouts have shimmied their way onto the fitness scene. All hula dancing stems from some basic movements, so mastering the basics might be easier than some other dance routines. The moves also do double duty as they are packed with symbolic meaning.
What It Means
Unlike some other dance workouts, hula does more than merely make you sweat. Hula dances tell a story using the body's movements. Movements are not willy-nilly, but rather represent an image, object or symbolic reference. Traditional hula dances illustrated the stories told in meles, or songs chanted by Hawaiian poets.
What It Does
In addition to illustrating a story, hula dances can provide quite a workout. The continuous movements provide a cardio workout, which burns calories and fat. Hula tones your entire body, with a heavy emphasis on the hips, core and abdominal area thanks to the bevy of waist-whittling moves. Your arms by no means remain idle. They boost the calorie burn with their own movements that can depict ocean waves, raindrops or otherwise enhance the story.
Hula Steps
Hula has a number of different steps used in various combinations throughout a workout. The basic stance is the ha'a, where you stand with your knees bent. The ha'a is the stance that kicks off every other step, which includes the lewa, the hela, the ka'i and the 'ami. The 'ami is the basic hip rotation which comes with several variations. Other steps usually include some type of hip and foot movements, such as lifting your legs or shifting your weight from one foot to the other.
How to Learn It
Some dance studios and fitness centers offer hula dance classes, or you can opt for a hula workout video to learn at home. Some of the classes and videos focus on teaching the dance, while others are specifically designated as a cardio workout. Some of the workout video options include basic hula, cardio hula, hula for weight loss and hula for abs and buns. Don't forget hula with a modern twist with videos like the Tahitian hip-hop workout. It combines traditional hula with hip-hop moves.
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