Remember the show Soul Train from back in the 60’s and 70’s?
The original “Jerk” dance move comes from that era, but since then, it’s been modified and revamped for the 2010s.
It was created for freestyling and dance battling, but now, it’s a popular social dance too.
In recent years, the Jerk is often paired up with the Reject – a move that looks like you're skipping backwards in place.
You can click here if you wanna check out the Reject tutorial too!
Watch this video for a demonstration of the Jerk:
Wanna learn this move step-by-step with a FREE tutorial on STEEZY Studio?
Hit the button to take our class (no CC required). Having an instructor break it down on camera really helps!
If you’re more of a reader, keep scrolling and follow along with the steps below!
HOW TO DO THE JERK:
- Stand with your left foot forward, right foot back, left hip to the front, and chest at a 45 degree angle. Keep your arms relaxed and loose.
- Start to rock forward and back.
- Now start bouncing as you rock forward and back to give the motion more of a swing.
- Next, start pushing your knees outwards on each bounce. So as you count 1,2,3,4 with the beat, your knees push outward on each count. Keep your back foot on its toes to help you push off the floor and bounce. Keep your front foot flat on the floor to keep your body grounded and balanced.
- Finally, add in the arm shape in by bringing your arms up with the elbows out, fists at chest height.
Keep in mind, this description is just a basic Jerk move – but there are lots of other arm motions and levels you can use to keep this one interesting.
Watch the video earlier in this article to get inspired. Good luck!
