The name "Kuialua" literally means "two hits". That name was subsequently given to the god of this martial art. Only those associated with the alii (nobility), such as professional warriors, guardsmen, and members of the royal families, were generally taught Kuialua. During times of warfare, the makaāinana (commoners) were also instructed in the basic movements and functions of the martial art. The old warriors of this art would coat themselves with a thin layer of coconut oil and remove all of their body hair in order to be able to slip away and avoid being grappled in battle. The word for Lua masters, "ʻōlohe", literally means "hairless".