1 Circular Hips

COURSE: blues-moves-family-tree

FOCUS: This lesson focuses on mastering circular hip movements in blues dance, starting with foundational techniques like the pendular pulse and progressing to integrated steps with a soft collect.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Find the hip joint by placing hands in pockets or on the indentation near the legs.
• Keep the spine long and knees bent while performing movements to avoid tension.
• Practice the pendular pulse by moving hips back and chest forward without straightening knees.
• Use a soft collect when stepping to gently close the leg and release hip flexors.
• Visualize scooping out a jar of spread to guide the circular hip motion.
• Maintain a clear axis from head to foot during steps to stay balanced.

REMEMBER:

• Circular hips enhance movement fluidity and are essential for leading and following in blues dance.
• Avoid creating wrinkles in clothing by keeping the spine elongated during bends.
• The pendular pulse involves forward-back motion rather than up-down, with hips and chest moving oppositely.
• Soft collect allows for balance and freedom in the free leg for responsive dancing.
• Practice movements slowly to build muscle memory and reduce frustration.
• Focus on internal joint movement, like massaging the femur in the acetabulum, for smooth execution.