FAQ

SpinPoi is located in Auckland, New Zealand, but we offer all our services online and have certified instructors across the globe. To see if there is an instructor near you, check out our instructor directory on the certifications page.

Poi is a weight on the end of a flexible cord, which you swing in circular patterns around your body. Both poi the object, and how you move with that object, can take on many different forms and styles. For more information on the origins of poi and how it is used today, check out our What is Poi? page.

There are lots of places to buy poi online, including our very own SpinPoi shop. Two other great resources are Home of Poi (use the code “SpinPoiLtd” at checkout for a 15% discount) and Kids Korowai (use the code “Spin Poi” for a 10% discount).

Yes of course! Check out our video on 3 simple ways to make poi.

Check out this page for a tutorial video on learning your first poi move and beyond, or have a look on this map for poi jams in your area.

Visit our research page, where you can read about the first clinical study on the effects of poi on physical and cognitive function. You can also read Dr. Kate Riegle van West’s full dissertation here.

Below are a few sources which might be of interest.

Probably! But alas, there are only so many hours in the day. If you’ve got an idea for something to research, give it a go! Start by writing out a plan:

  • What do you want to study (for example, the effects of poi on depression)?
  • Who do you want to study (for example, 15 – 20 year olds)?
  • How do you want to measure it (for example, administer a survey before and after poi lessons)?

While there isn’t much research on poi, there are probably studies which have investigated a similar question to yours and a different intervention (for example Tai Chi, dance, juggling). Base your research on these studies, don’t reinvent the wheel!

Go for it! The SpinPoi certification program is a great way to build your skillset and credibility as a poi instructor. Here is some general advice for getting up and spinning:

Socks and rice make great starter poi, and so many other materials can be used. You can incorporate making poi into the lessons, and ask students to bring their own materials. If you don’t have a space, keep your eye out for public spaces that might work. If it’s nice out a park is always great, or in the winter look for covered or semi-indoor spaces like atriums, parking garages, or shopping plazas. You can also team up with a local community center, retirement village, after school program, etc. Write them an email that explains what poi is and some of the health benefits (feel free to include a link to SpinPoi!). Let them know why poi is great, and why it will be great at their organization. If you don’t hear back (or even if you do) follow up the email with a phone call or in person visit. Don’t be discouraged if no one bites. Try lots of places, be persistent! It only takes one interested place/person to make it happen.