So, you've been dancing Lindy Hop for a while now. You’ve mastered the basics, nailed your swing-outs, and maybe even thrown in a few aerials here and there. But now you’re itching to take your dancing to the next level. Welcome to the world of intermediate and advanced Lindy Hop! This is where the magic happens—where your creativity, musicality, and connection truly shine. Let’s dive into some essential moves and techniques that will help you transition from intermediate to advanced.
1. Master the Art of Pulse and Connection
At the heart of Lindy Hop is the pulse—that rhythmic bounce that keeps you connected to the music and your partner. As you move into advanced dancing, refining your pulse becomes crucial. It’s not just about bouncing; it’s about feeling the music in your body and transmitting that energy to your partner. Work on maintaining a consistent pulse even during complex moves. This will make your dancing look effortless and grounded.
2. Level Up Your Swing-Outs
The swing-out is the bread and butter of Lindy Hop, and at the advanced level, it’s all about nuance. Focus on variations like slingshot swing-outs, Texas Tommy swing-outs, and reverse swing-outs. Experiment with different rhythms, such as triple steps, single steps, or even syncopated steps. The key is to make your swing-outs dynamic and adaptable to the music.
3. Explore Advanced Footwork Variations
Footwork is where you can really express your individuality. Start incorporating more intricate patterns like fall-offs, shim-sham variations, and tranky doo-inspired steps. Don’t be afraid to play with syncopation and off-beat rhythms. Advanced footwork isn’t just about complexity—it’s about making it look smooth and natural.
4. Add Flair with Styling
Styling is what sets advanced dancers apart. For followers, this might mean adding swivels, body rolls, or arm flourishes. Leaders can experiment with hand gestures, footwork variations, or even subtle changes in posture. Remember, styling should enhance the dance, not distract from it. Keep it musical and connected to your partner.
5. Incorporate Musicality into Your Dancing
Musicality is the secret sauce of advanced Lindy Hop. Start listening to the music more deeply—pay attention to the instruments, the breaks, and the phrasing. Try hitting the accents in the music with your movements, whether it’s a sharp kick, a dramatic pause, or a playful bounce. The more you connect with the music, the more your dancing will come alive.
6. Experiment with Partnered Moves
Advanced Lindy Hop is all about creativity and improvisation. Start exploring more complex partnered moves like tandem Charleston, side-by-side Charleston, and air steps (if you’re comfortable and have a trusted partner). Don’t forget to practice your lead-follow connection to ensure these moves feel smooth and natural.
7. Work on Your Solo Jazz Vocabulary
Solo jazz is a fantastic way to improve your Lindy Hop. It helps you develop rhythm, coordination, and creativity. Learn classic routines like the Shim Sham, Tranky Doo, and Big Apple, and then start creating your own variations. The more you practice solo jazz, the more tools you’ll have to express yourself in partnered dancing.
8. Embrace the Social Dance Floor
Finally, the best way to advance your Lindy Hop is to dance—a lot. Social dancing is where you’ll test your skills, try new moves, and learn to adapt to different partners and styles. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes; that’s how you grow. The more you dance, the more confident and versatile you’ll become.
Transitioning from intermediate to advanced Lindy Hop is an exciting journey. It’s about refining your technique, expanding your vocabulary, and deepening your connection to the music and your partner. Keep practicing, stay curious, and most importantly, have fun on the dance floor. Happy swinging!
