--- title: 14 Grind description: published: true date: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z tags: Blues editor: markdown dateCreated: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z ---
## FOCUS - This lesson teaches the grind, a rotational hip swing movement, focusing on subtle variations and fluid execution, with applications in solo and partnered dancing. ## TIP & TRICKS: - Start with feet under hips and swing hips rotationally, keeping weight split and legs alternating straightening and bending. - Practice against a wall to keep the upper body facing forward while swinging the hips. - Roll through the foot from ball to heel for a soft step, transferring energy from the ground into the hips. - For an exaggerated grind, stretch the ribs forward as the hip swings back to create resistance. - Travel the grind by stepping slightly forward or backward each time while maintaining the hip swing. - In partnership, connect in close embrace and allow the connection point to roll across each other. ##REMEMBER - Keep the movement fluid and subtle, with all action happening from the belly button down. - Maintain a relaxed posture with shoulders slightly over the knees when grinding. - Hips swing back, not forward, during the grind movement. - The grind can be adapted for solo practice or partnered dancing with simple travel variations.