So you’ve mastered the basics of Lindy Hop—you can swing out without tripping over your feet, and your Charleston has some pep. But now you’re ready to take things up a notch. Refining your Swingout and Charleston as an intermediate dancer means focusing on the details: connection, musicality, and technique. Here’s how to polish those moves and make them shine.
1. The Swingout: It’s All About Connection & Flow
The swingout is the bread and butter of Lindy Hop, but at the intermediate level, it’s time to move beyond just “getting through it.” Here’s what to focus on:
a. Frame & Elasticity
A strong frame isn’t stiff—it’s dynamic. Think of your arms as rubber bands: they stretch and rebound naturally. Leaders, avoid gripping too tightly; followers, maintain tone without being rigid. The connection should feel alive, not forced.
b. Weight Shifts & Footwork Precision
Intermediate dancers often rush the triple step or skip weight shifts. Slow it down:
- Leaders: Your rock step should initiate momentum, not just be a placeholder.
- Followers: Delay your rotation slightly—let the leader’s lead guide you, not anticipation.
c. Musicality: Syncopate Your Swingout
Try hitting breaks or accents in the music. Instead of a uniform rhythm, experiment with delayed triples or pausing on beat 4 for a playful effect.
2. Charleston: Clean Lines & Playful Energy
Charleston looks effortless when done well, but it requires control. Here’s how to refine it:
a. Knee Placement & Kick Timing
Avoid “muddy” kicks by keeping your knees slightly inward (not pigeon-toed, but aligned). Your kicks should be sharp—think of tapping an imaginary ball with your toe.
b. Partner Connection in Side-by-Side
In side-by-side Charleston, maintain a slight tension in the joined arms. Too loose, and you’ll lose sync; too tight, and it feels robotic. Match your partner’s pulse.
c. Variations That Pop
Once basic steps feel solid, try:
- Tandem Charleston: Play with level changes (dip low on the “kick, kick”).
- Swivels: Followers, add hip swivels on the “step, step” for flair.
3. Drills to Level Up
Refinement comes from deliberate practice. Try these:
- Slow-Motion Swingouts: Dance at half-speed to spot connection flaws.
- Mirror Work: Charleston solo in front of a mirror—check your lines.
- Record Yourself: Video reveals habits (like hunched shoulders) you might miss.
Intermediate Lindy Hop isn’t about flashy moves—it’s about making the fundamentals feel incredible. Polish your swingout and Charleston now, and you’ll have a rock-solid foundation for advanced styling and aerials later. Now go hit the dance floor and swing out like you mean it!
