3 basic fire-spinning moves for beginners.

Fire spirals, spitting dragons, and rhythmic dancing - no wonder the art of fire-spinning has spread like wildfire at the Bay.

The Sugar Bay fire-show tradition first saw light when Bear, aka Elan Stark, and Hoova, aka Baden Dowie, two of our very first counselors, started showing the kids a few cool poi tricks when Sugar Bay opened in 2001.

Poi is the physical objects used by the dancers and the choreography itself of fire-spinning. Poi originates from the Maori people and is still being practiced today.

In our previous post, we teach you how to make poi in 5 easy steps, the history of poi and the different Maori traditions poi is used for.

Before you start spinning with fire, you use poi to practice your routine. We have 3 basic moves to get you started on your fire-spinning journey.

Butterfly 

• Hold your arms at a 90° angle with your palms facing up 
• Spin poi in mini circles while seperating your arms and come back in. 

Punches 

• Start with the butterfly 
• Bring in your right arm towards your chest and rotate with the left. 
• Repeat. 

Buzzsaw 

• Hold your arms in a 90° angle with your palms facing each other
• Use your wrists to make small circular motions. 

And there you have it! You'll be on your way to becoming the next great fire spinner.


Do you know any other moves we can add to the list for beginners? Tell us by leaving a comment below! We're always creating innovating and exciting specialized classes at the Bay. Follow our Pinterest channel for more art and camp crafts inspiration.