7-2 Basic Dance Movements

Key Concepts of 7-2 Basic Dance Movements

7-2 Basic Dance Movements focus on seven primary movements and two secondary movements. These movements are fundamental to various dance styles and help build a strong foundation in dance.

1. Step

A step is a basic movement where one foot moves forward, backward, or to the side. Steps are the building blocks of dance routines and can be combined to create more complex movements.

2. Hop

A hop is a movement where both feet leave the ground simultaneously. Hops can be small and quick or large and energetic, depending on the dance style and tempo.

3. Skip

A skip involves alternating feet leaving the ground. It is a bouncy movement that adds a playful and light-hearted feel to dance routines.

4. Leap

A leap is a movement where both feet leave the ground at the same time, but with more height and distance than a hop. Leaps are often used to express joy and freedom in dance.

5. Turn

A turn is a rotational movement where the dancer spins around on one foot. Turns can be simple, like a quarter turn, or complex, like a full 360-degree spin.

6. Jump

A jump involves both feet leaving the ground, but with more force and height than a hop. Jumps can be combined with other movements, such as turns or kicks, to create dynamic routines.

7. Glide

A glide is a smooth, flowing movement where the dancer appears to slide across the floor. Glides are often used in dances that emphasize grace and fluidity.

8. Kick

A kick is a movement where one leg is extended outward with force. Kicks can be high or low, depending on the dance style and the dancer's flexibility.

9. Bend

A bend is a movement where the dancer lowers their body, often bending at the knees or waist. Bends add variety and depth to dance routines and can be used to emphasize certain beats or rhythms.

Examples and Analogies

Example 1: Step

Imagine walking forward in a slow, deliberate manner. Each step you take is a basic dance step. Now, try stepping to the side or backward. These variations create different dance patterns.

Example 2: Hop

Think of hopping like jumping on a trampoline. Both feet leave the ground at the same time, and you land softly on both feet. This movement can be quick and bouncy or slow and controlled.

Example 3: Skip

Imagine skipping like you did as a child. One foot leaves the ground, then the other, creating a rhythmic bounce. This movement adds a playful element to dance routines.

Example 4: Leap

Think of leaping like jumping over a puddle. Both feet leave the ground at the same time, but with more height and distance. This movement expresses joy and freedom.

Example 5: Turn

Imagine spinning around on one foot like a top. You can start with a simple quarter turn and gradually increase the number of rotations. This movement adds excitement and complexity to dance routines.

Example 6: Jump

Think of jumping like leaping, but with more force and height. You can combine jumps with other movements, such as turns or kicks, to create dynamic and energetic routines.

Example 7: Glide

Imagine sliding across the floor like a figure skater. Your movements are smooth and fluid, creating a graceful and elegant effect. This movement adds a sense of flow to dance routines.

Example 8: Kick

Think of kicking like a soccer player. One leg extends outward with force, creating a powerful and dynamic movement. Kicks can be high or low, depending on the dance style.

Example 9: Bend

Imagine bending at the knees like you're picking up a heavy object. This movement adds variety and depth to dance routines, emphasizing certain beats or rhythms.

By mastering these basic dance movements, you will be able to create more complex and engaging dance routines, enhancing your overall physical education experience.