How to Dance the Nigerian Stomp

The Nigerian Stomp is one form of dance that is performed by people of African descent and by those who simply enjoy learning about other cultures. It's a dance that is rich in African heritage. You can dance your own version.

Instructions

1. Know that there are many different versions of the Nigerian Stomp, just as there are different dances that vary on "Stomp." There are thousands of people groups in Africa. Each group or community has its own specific version of the Nigerian Stomp. There are also dances called the Guinea Stomp and the Senegalese Stomp. Each version of the dance tells the story of that community's joys and struggles in life.

2. Dance the Nigerian Stomp by learning the significance of the dance. The feet stomping the ground tells of the relationship between people and the earth. There is a sacred meaning behind the particular way in which a community performs the dance. Have a sense of rhythm, balance and movement skills in order to dance the Nigerian Stomp.

3. Lift one leg while keeping the other leg straight with your foot flat on the ground. The lifted leg should bend at the knee in gradual degrees as you lift it in time to the music. As you plant your foot back down on the ground, do so with a forceful stomp of the foot as it hits the ground.

4. Alternate your legs, lifting each leg with a jerking motion as you bend your knee. Be careful to maintain balance while standing on one foot. Your legs should alternate as slowly or as quickly as the beat of the music when you dance the Nigerian Stomp.