Once you get your head moving, it will make it easier for you to get the rest of your body going. To find the beat, try listening to the drums or the bass. These instruments usually carry the rhythm of the song.
At every other count, shift your weight completely to the other foot. You can also shift your weight at every count but by starting out slowly, you will get comfortable before you begin dancing fast. Keep your legs loose and your knees slightly bent. There should be just a bit of “bounce” to your weight shift, and a subtle bounce (in place) on the counts when you aren’t shifting your weight.
Stay on the balls of your feet so you can move and bounce easily. If you’re dancing with someone else, be sure to move around in a way that accommodates your partner.
For example, when you move to the right, put your right shoulder forward a little and your left shoulder back. Do the opposite when you move to the left.
Roll the dice. Make a loose fist and shake your arm and hand as though you are shaking a pair of dice for a roll. After a few shakes, “roll” the dice. Don’t overuse this move to the point that it becomes comical. Mow the lawn. Bend forward and grasp the starter of an imaginary lawn mower with one hand, then pull your hand back as though you’re pulling on the starter. Once you get it going, you can take a few steps while you mow the lawn. Swing an air lasso. Grab an imaginary lasso and swing it above your head as though you’re about to rope a cow. Shift your weight to the foot opposite your “lasso hand” and thrust your hips in that direction. Pump your fist. Make a fist and then make a pumping motion overhead in a celebratory fashion.
Experiment with different moves, positions, and speeds while you dance. Don’t be afraid to make up your own moves. Free style is all about improvisation and individual expression.
You can keep your clasped hands held as high as eye level or as low as waist level, depending on your preference. Just keep them relaxed, with a comfortable bend at the elbow, and don’t raise your partner’s shoulder. Leave about 3–6 inches (7. 6–15. 2 cm) of space between yourself and your partner. Make sure you and your partner agree on who is leading before you begin!
If your partner is leading, let them initiate the first step, but try to move with them as smoothly as possible. Try to time your steps with the beat of the music. You may find it helpful to count along with the music in your head.
Try not to bounce or dip as you bring your feet together. Aim for a smooth, gliding movement.
Alternatively, you can do 2 steps to the left and then 2 steps to the right. [9] X Research source
For example, if you’re stepping left but want to pivot to the right, start by bringing your right foot to meet your left. Then, push your partner’s right hand with your left hand while gently pulling on their shoulder with your right hand, and step to the left at the same time.
Raise your arms to shoulder level and line your thumbs up with your index fingers to create a shape that resembles a chicken’s beak. Move your thumbs up and down to simulate a chicken clucking. Then, ball up your hands and tuck your fists under your arms as though you have wings. Flap your wings up and down in time to the music. With your wings still in place, continue flapping but now stick out your backside, bend your knees and wiggle your bottom down toward the floor. Repeat these moves over and over until the song ends.
Step the left foot across to the right. Let the right foot follow. Step the left foot behind the right. Follow again with the right. This dance is performed in a circle with dancers either holding hands or throwing their arms over one another’s shoulders. The tempo of this dance is typically fast. Sometimes the music starts slowly, and the band speeds up the tempo as the song goes along.
Holding on and simply swaying in place is perfectly acceptable if it makes it easier to have a personal conversation.
When you are being taught a routine, look at what the teacher is doing. Try to copy it exactly. If it doesn’t work, watch the teacher again and look for the little things they do that make it easier. Go ahead and ask your instructor for tips. Experienced instructors have worked with hundreds of students and have ideas that can help you overcome whatever it is you’re finding to be difficult. Even a few hours of class time can help you learn the basics and build your confidence.
Some flash mobs put videos online with instructions for learning and rehearsing the planned dance. Flash mobs welcome people of all skill levels; their focus is on having fun and creating a joyful scene, so the more people who participate, the better. You’ll also learn some great dance moves and connect with other people who enjoy dancing.
Popular current dance shows include Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance.
Check out Dirty Dancing or Shall We Dance to watch 2 dance novices develop confidence and grace and learn to perform with pizzazz. Watch Footloose or Flashdance to see the power of dance as a form of defiance against uptight authority figures and personal circumstances. Rent anything starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers to be inspired by the grace and elegance of these famous dance partners. Watch Stormy Weather to see the Nicholas Brothers push the limits of tap dancing.
Check out websites such as the International Grand Ball, United States Dance Championships, and the Access Dance Network to name just a few.
Different styles of dance call for different types of shoes, so do some research about what’s needed for your preferred style. For example, sneakers are great for hip hop or freestyle dancing, while heels are ideal for Latin dance styles.
If you’ll be dancing with a partner, avoid wearing slippery materials, like silk. Your partner may have a hard time holding onto you if their hands get sweaty. [17] X Research source
Try on your outfit at home to be sure you can dance with ease. To avoid wardrobe malfunctions, make sure your clothing fits securely and won’t slip out of place if you really get moving!
