How to Walk Like an Egyptian

Although it's now immediately familiar to many of us, the "Walk like an Egyptian" pose, strut, or dance isn't really authentic. It's a 20th century creation, made popular by the Bangles in their 1986 hit of the same name, and other performers, including comedians. Egyptology experts say the Egyptians never walked that way, and no evidence of such a walk exists on ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs. But with all kinds of stylized pop "Egyptian" images featuring the stiff, arms-forward pose, most of us are not going to be inclined to believe the experts, proving that visual and verbal reinforcement can be much stronger than fact.

Instructions

1. Raise one of your arms.

2. Hold that arm out in front of you and bend it at the elbow in a right angle; then bend your flat palm forward (down) at another right angle, so that your arm resembles a cobra standing erect.

3. Bend your other arm the opposite way, with your forearm pointing down and your flat palm pointing behind you.

4. Stand up straight.

5. Take small, stiff steps forward. If there is music, strut along to the beat. "walk" staring ahead, in a regular but stiff motion.

Tips & Warnings

• Beware the power of stereotypes. While it might be amusing to think of an entire nation shuffling around, pay attention to the actual history of Egypt and avoiding tarring all Egyptians with the same brush. An actual Egyptian might be offended at what they perceive to be an insult or slight. Make it clear to your Egyptian friends that your comedic postures are meant for good clean fun and to maintain respect for history.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish