If there is any rake do not play samll stake cash games HU - the rake easts you alive in those games.

Play the stars 2 man sit n go's that have no escalating rake - those are excellent for developing HU skills - or if you prefer normal 2 man SNG's.

HU is a great format to help you learn to read opponents. Just play for very small stakes compared to your roll until you get the hang of it though..