10 Twisting Hips 3

COURSE: blues-moves-family-tree

FOCUS: This lesson focuses on a variation of twisting hips called horizontal grinds, teaching how to twist hips forward and back by bending one knee at a time while keeping weight on the bent leg.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Keep your feet hips-width apart and find a pendular pulse to warm up.
• Bend one knee while keeping the other straight to create a diagonal hip movement to the back.
• Ensure your weight is on the bent leg by checking in a mirror or with a partner.
• Allow your foot to be soft, rolling through the ball and heel for smooth motion.
• Keep your knees facing forward and avoid letting them go to the side during the movement.
• Initiate movements from the hips, letting the leg follow naturally for variations like foot fans.

REMEMBER:

• Horizontal grinds involve twisting hips forward and back, distinct from lateral swings.
• The movement is similar to Cuban motion in Latin dances or a kizomba walk from African dances.
• Practice variations like foot fans or heel fans by rotating the foot on the heel as the axis.
• Maintain length through the spine and keep the chest soft to support the twisting sensation.
• These movements can also be called trucking, apple jacks, or digs in different dance contexts.
• Consistent practice is key, as mastering grinds may take time and patience.