Crawls are simultaneously basic and really complex. So many elements of solo and partner dancing rely on these skills. So jump in and go for it. Depending on your previous movement training/practice these steps might seem easy and fun or difficult and frustrating.
A super mellow move that looks and feels great. It is easy to build variations with and fun to do.
Fall Off the Log uses full-time and half-time rhythms. It originates from tap dancing but is used as a soft shoe step for Lindy Hoppers.
Level 2 warm up!
The Shim Sham has become a global Lindy Hop phenomenon. When in doubt....Shim Sham! We have 3 versions for you to learn based on your current skill level or if you need inspiration in deciding what to teach your students. Originating in the tap dance community in the 1920s from Leonard Reed and Willie Bryant, Lindy Hoppers have since modified it to work for "soft shoe" dancing. The primary version used in the global Lindy Hop community was introduced by Frankie Manning to NYC in the 1980s.
If you're going to do this, you have to fully commit yourself to this move. Take a wide stance with a lunge, rock your hips forward and back with your weight change, and frame it with your arms. Rockin'!
It's exactly as its name describes and uses full-time, a triple step, and 4-count rhythm. It's a little bit silly, and a whole lot of fun.
Swivels training, Shim Sham and Slip Slop Shim Sham!
A variation of the Shim Sham as performed by Al Minns and Leon James, two famous original Lindy Hoppers who were part of Whitey's Lindy Hoppers. No prior knowledge of the original Shim Sham is necessary. It's great for expanding your personal jazz movement and very versatile for incorporating into larger lindy routines.
This move can prove to be challenging, but the effort is worth it. Once internalized, squat Charlestons can really fun to do, though they can be exhausting when done for long periods of time.
