Dirty Dancing Instructions

Dirty dancing can be good, dirty fun!

Though "dirty dancing" is not a formal dance like the rhumba or the waltz, it has gained in popularity since 1987, when the film of the same title was released. This perennial dance craze involves moving your hips loosely and employing occasional pelvic-grinding gestures in the direction of your dance partner. Though not as stylized as, say, the waltz, there are particular styles of clothing and music that characterize this salty type of dance.

Things You'll Need

• Dance floor
• Dance shoes
• Dance music

Instructions

1. Set the mood for your dirty dance through music and clothing choices. Though the film "Dirty Dancing" employed music with a steady and broad beat, it's entirely possible to dirty dance to any sort of music that feels romantic and sexy, from salsa to tango to sultry to even disco. Pick whatever sends you to the dance floor. Additionally, choose your dance wear accordingly-- for men, snug trousers are de rigueur; for women, slit skirts or outfits that reveal the body are often chosen, as long as they allow for movement. Ladies, don't forget your heels!

2. Start by loosening up your hips in time to the rhythm of the music you've chosen. Listen to the track, and be as spontaneous as possible, swinging your hips back and forth, side to side, in a sexual fashion. Don't let anyone make you feel embarrassed, as this sort of movement is natural. Your partner will follow suit.

3. Move your feet across the floor to the beat, if your hips suggest it. Bend your knees deeply, and step with your partner. It's also possible to just let your legs intertwine while you practice grinding your pelvis.

4. Find the steps that inspire you and add your arms. Use them to move in tandem your partner, or let them move your partner closer, by grabbing their hips, chest, or shoulders. Feel free to twirl your partner about, salsa-style; ladies, grab your free-flowing skirt for a sexy shake and a reveal of the legs! Don't hesitate to snake your leg around your partner's leg for a tight squeeze.

5. A very dirty move has to do with dipping your partner, gents. Grab her hand and twirl her to the music so that she passes under your arm; as she does so, snap her back so that her body comes to rest on your arm, then take a step closer to her and allow her to lie back onto said arm, as she extends her outside leg. While you're bracing her, give her neck a sensuous kiss. Don't be afraid to improvise--there are no wrong steps in dirty dancing.

References

• "Dirty Dancing," the movie