Why I move: Dancing Hula

My first hula class: where are they now?  #Flashback

Another form of exercise that I enjoy regularly is dancing hula. I have been dancing hula almost as long as I've been training in aikido. I decided to start when my gym at that time closed, and I needed an option to exercise. I saw Hula and Martial Arts classes at the adult school catalogue, so I thought I would give it a try. I have always been drawn to try hula since the movements are beautiful, and the music relaxing.

Hula has a special place in my heart. When I was a kid (perhaps around 8 years old), I had a chance to dance to Tiny Bubbles and Pearly Shells for the wedding of one of my aunts. This is one of my happy childhood memories. 

Like a martial arts class, some people may be hesitant to start a dance class, because it may be extremely challenging. When I first started, I did experience that. I could not even perform the basic steps (and gave me flashbacks of childhood). However, with practice, I was able to improve. Unfortunately, nowadays, with work and other obligations, I can only practice once a week.


Hula is an excellent form of exercise. Most of the time, it is not aerobic (but through the years, I did find out that it depends on the dance). We do work out our thighs and arms, and sometimes our core. One of the first things that I noticed when I first started hula was my thighs got a lot stronger. We are usually dancing with bent knees, which is actually what makes our hips sway. After my first year of dancing, I found my thighs were in better shape for skiing! Swoosh!

But I digress... again.

Hula also keeps my brain in shape. On top of memorizing steps and hand motions, we need to memorize our "kaheas" or key words that provide cues for musicians. Sometimes, we need to memorize the entire song. It also helps if you learn a bit of Hawaiian. Sometimes I think hula is more challenging than using games that challenge your brain.

Hula also helps me connect with one another. When we dance we need to synchronize and stay in line with each other and in beat to the music. In life, your class becomes your hula family or "ohana". You really feel the spirit of "aloha" when you come to class.

I enjoy hula for almost the same reasons as I enjoy aikido. It helps me physically, mentally, and spiritually. However, for some reason, I feel more relaxed when I dance. Perhaps it is because it reminds me of times when we travelled to Hawaii. Or maybe the music relaxes me and connects to my heart and my soul.

I hope you will try it. You'll see why it can be addictive.

If you enjoyed this article, you may enjoy the others from my "Why I move" series:

• On Walking
• On Going To The Gym
• On Aikido