Twerk
Twerk is a dance built on fast, rhythmic movements of the hips and glutes, while the rest of the body holds a low, stable position. It is linked with the bounce music of New Orleans and has relatives in West African and Caribbean dances. Studios teach it in groups, with a lot of attention to strength, isolation and technique.
What it is for
Section titled “What it is for”- Strong legs and glutes: much of the class is spent in a squat.
- Isolation and control of the hips and lower back.
- Cardio and stamina.
- Confidence and a positive relationship with your body.
- Fun and a release for stress.
Equipment
Section titled “Equipment”- Knee pads: many moves are on the floor, on the knees.
- Shoes: sneakers, or bare feet or socks — it depends on the studio.
- Clothes: shorts or leggings and a top. Clothes that show the movement of the hips help you check your technique in the mirror.
- Water and a towel.
How a class goes
Section titled “How a class goes”- Usually 60–90 minutes.
- A warm-up for the hips, knees and lower back, then strength work: squats, lunges and glute exercises.
- Technique: the basic stance and the main movements — the hips moving up and down, side to side and in circles, and each side on its own.
- A short choreography that links the moves together, sometimes with floor work or moves against a wall.
- Stretching of the legs, hips and back at the end.
- A first class needs no experience. The stance takes time to find, so do not worry if it feels strange at first.
Who it suits best
Section titled “Who it suits best”- Anybody who wants strong legs and glutes in a fun class. Most dancers in these classes are women, but the style is open to everyone.
- Beginners: the basics are taught from the first class.
- Dancers of Dancehall, hip-hop or heels who want better control of the hips.
- People who want to feel more confident in their body.
- It is less suited to anybody with knee or lower-back problems, because the deep squat and fast movement load them — ask your doctor and tell the teacher. In pregnancy or after giving birth, ask your doctor before you start.