2 In Full Swing

COURSE: hip-action

FOCUS: This lesson focuses on developing swing in the hips by imagining them as a heavy ball attached to a rope-like spine, with the goal of applying this swing to basic steps and walks for a softer movement.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Imagine your hips as a bowling ball and your spine as a rope to initiate swing from the sternum.
• Keep the spine long and relaxed while swinging side to side, forwards, backwards, or in circles.
• Practice swing on a basic step by allowing hips to swing side to side without exaggeration.
• Add swing to a walk by transferring weight each beat as the hip swings over.
• Avoid using muscles to force hip movement; keep it free and soft.

REMEMBER:

• Swing can be adjusted in size but should always maintain a relaxed and long spine.
• The technique softens movement edges compared to moving hips as a block.
• Initiate swing from the upper body to involve both spine and hips.
• Focus on keeping the side long to prevent crunching or shortening space.