How to learn to do the moonwalk? Five steps to mastering

2024 Author: Leah Sherlock | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 05:25

Before we learn how to learn how to do the moonwalk, let's find out what it is. The moonwalk (sliding backwards) is one of the most popular dance techniques of the twentieth century, which creates the illusion of moving forward, although the dancer is moving backwards. A thorough mastery of the technique allows you to move sideways, forward and even in a circle.

Moonwalk: before and after Jackson

For the first time something similar to the moonwalk was demonstrated by jazz musician Cab Calloway back in 1932. Well, in a performance close to modern, it could be seen in 1945 in the film "Children of Paradise". There, two mimes masterfully walked with a moonwalk. After that, it was adopted by many actors, dancers and singers. Each of them tried to bring something new to the technique of movement. For example, rock singer David Bowie first performed this dance technique while remaining in place. Here, through the dance, the whole power of art was manifested. In 1974, Michael Jackson visited the concert of the rocker, andnine years later, he moonwalked on a TV show. A little later, during the performance of the composition "Billie Jean", the trick was repeated, than Michael made it popular all over the world and turned it into his calling card.

How to learn to moonwalk?

1. Stand sideways in front of a mirror. Arms relaxed, legs together. We evenly distribute body weight on both legs.

2. We put the left foot back, on the toe, and then slowly transfer the weight of the body to it, leaning back a little. Hold this position to feel the weight on your leg.

3. With a sliding motion, we take the right leg back, trying not to tear it off the floor. It is necessary to slide as far as possible, while the weight of the body remains on the left foot.

4. At the moment when the heel of the left foot falls to the floor, the heel of the right one rises. The weight of the body is calmly transferred to the right leg (this is the key point in the question: "How to learn to do the moonwalk?").

5. Now the left leg is free and can freely slide backwards on the floor. As soon as the backward slide reaches the farthest position, the heels of the legs change (left - raise, right - lower) and the weight of the body is again transferred to the left leg. It turns out that we are returning to point number 2. These movements must be looped one after another and smoothly moved back. The position in point No. 1 is the starting position, and it is not necessary to repeat it. Once your legs get used to all the positions, work on the tempo andsmoothness. It is important to slide only in a straight line and not deviate. Also, success will depend on shoes and flooring. Think of Michael Jackson's performances. Personally, I don't remember a single one where he would slide in sneakers, because the friction force they have is much higher than that of ordinary shoes. At first, I advise you to use socks and be sure to track your movements in the mirror or using video.

If you haven't figured out how to do the moonwalk, then watch the tutorial video from the "learn to dance together" category or contact a multidisciplinary dance studio where you can learn this move under the guidance of a professional choreographer.