In their simplest form Poi are a ball or weight attached to a cord. They can be very simple to make and decorate. Poi range from tennis balls in long socks, to nylon fabric around beanbags (sometimes with tails), to square flag poi weighted at one end, and finally fire poi.

The word Poi means ball in Maori. Poi originated in New Zealand. Poi were used in a variety of traditional dances and exercises. Swinging poi is becoming more popular and is often seen at festivals and raves. Fire poi is a recent adaptation and has been proving quite popular.