Welcome to STEEZY's dance move glossary!
Think of it as a wiki-page that covers the most popular dance moves from viral videos, club dance floors, and Hip Hop history – basically, all the moves you might wanna learn as a beginner dancer.
Each move in the glossary comes with a little background info, a demo video, and a link to a FREE tutorial so you can learn it step-by-step on STEEZY Studio.
Use this post to look up that one move you’ve always always wanted to learn, or brush up on all the most popular moves at once.
Got a move that you wanna learn that's not listed here? Comment below!
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1. 3 Step Challenge
This dance popped AWF on TikTok in 2021.
It’s normally done facing away from your camera, as if you’re walking away with a fun little bounce in your step (and booty 😜).
Watch the move demonstrated here:
2. Arched Back Body Roll
A Body Roll is one of those undeniably sexy dance moves that everyone should learn, and this arched back version really turns up the heat!
It’s popular on TikTok because it allows you to highlight your booty despite the fact that it’s not too difficult to learn.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
3. Back Arch and Cry Baby
This move has been a favorite of trending music artists like Megan Thee Stallion and TikTokers worldwide, but it’s actually been around for the majority of the 2000s!
Even though the move mimics a baby throwing a tantrum on the floor, the booty popping motion makes it suggestive enough for any baddie routine. ;)
Watch the move demonstrated here:
4. Bang Bang Bang
The “Bang Bang Bang” dance move, choreographed by Parris Goebel, is legendary for how it blends sharpness and fluidity with total ease.
Even years after the song release, this move is still gaining new fans!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
5. Bankhead Bounce
The Bankhead Bounce comes from west Atlanta, which is known as “Bankhead.”
It was popularized by an Atlanta rapper named Diamond Atkins who also made a song to go with the dance.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
6. Bart Simpson
No surprise, the 90s TV show The Simpsons was the inspiration for this move!
The arm position and gliding motion is meant to mimic the stance Bart Simpson would use when riding his skateboard on the show.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
7. Billy Bounce
This dance was created as part of YouTube comedy skit by @youfunnyb.
He used the dance as a goofy moment in his video, so approach this move with a sense of fun and playfulness!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
8. Biz Markie
The dance move Biz Markie, named after the late rapper Biz Markie, is an energizing move that you can use in social settings while hanging out on the dance floor.
With that swaggy arm swing and hip movement, you’ll be well on your way to looking groovy and cool.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
9. Side to Side Booty Pop
This move is super popular on TikTok and it pops~ up in a lot of dance routines, so if you love a sexy little moment, the Side to Side Booty Pop is for you.
It allows you to make eye contact with your audience in the front while you lift and pop your booty on both the left and right side.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
10. Bust Down
This move was popularized by the rapper Blueface and his song “Thotiana.”
Throughout the music video, Blueface and his friends hit the Bust Down as they groove to the song.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
11. Cabbage Patch
This move comes from a Miami rap group called Gucci Crew II, who had a song of the same name and would do this dance along with the song.
The name of the move and song references the line of Cabbage Patch Dolls that got popular in the 80s.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
12. CitiRokk
The “CitiRokk” was popularized by dancer and TikToker Cityboyrio in 2018.
He started doing this specific set of grooves on TikTok and it took over the entire app within months!
He was inspired by Chris Tucker’s character in the popular movie Rush Hour, who dances in his car with Jackie Chan.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
13. Dougie
The original Dougie dance was inspired by Dougie Fresh and his smooth dance style.
Eventually, the move made it to California where it took on elements of the Jerkin’ movement.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
14. DDU-DU DDU-DU
The “DDU-DU DDU-DU'' dance move, choreographed by Kyle Hanagami and Kiel Tutin, is one of those moves that will have you feeling like a real boss.
It serves some seriously quick arm movement sprinkled with a bit of sass.
Combined with the incredible visual and the BOP of a song itself, the “DDU-DU DDU-DU'' dance shook the K-Pop industry and all of its fans.
15. Fancy
The “Fancy” dance move, choreographed by Kiel Tutin and Lee Jung lee for TWICE, has a fun, bubblegum bounce to it that's unforgettable!
If you're a Once, or even just a general K-Pop fan, this move is a must-learn.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
16. Floss
The Floss first started taking off when a young dancer known as The Backpack Kid posted videos of himself doing the dance on social media.
It took over every social platform and news show, and every celebrity wanted to prove whether they could do the deceptively tricky-looking move.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
17. Gangnam Style
Long before groups like BTS and BLACKPINK became household names in the US, Psy was making history with his smash hit and music video for "Gangnam Style"!
The signature "Gangnam Style" dance move, choreographed by Lee Ju-sun, has a super cheerful element to it with its bouncy steps.
If you want to have fun while working on your stamina, this is the move to do.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
18. Gee
Back in the 2000s, "Gee" by Girls Generation held the title for one of the most viewed K-Pop music videos on record!
And just like the song itself, the main “Gee” dance move, choreographed by the SM Choreography Team, has a cute but sassy vibe to it.
Definitely a K-Pop move you don’t want to miss out on!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
19. Grapevine
The Grapevine is one of the oldest moves that people still do today, dating back to early 1900s Ballroom dancing.
But in Hip Hop and street dance, it’s less about gliding across the floor and more about bouncing and grooving to fun music.
It’s THE perfect footwork pattern for line dances or any move that travels across the floor.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
20. Hair Whips
A hair whip adds an extra flirty touch to any sexy choreography and it translates easily to casual dance settings like the club!
If you really wanna slay the dance floor, this move is a must-learn.
P.S. Keep in mind, you don’t need to have a bunch of hair to do the flip motion.
It’s really more about the attitude. ;)
Watch the move demonstrated here:
21. Happy Feet
This move first emerged in the Jazz dance era as a side to side move that could be paired with the Charleston.
Eventually, the Happy Feet was re-adapted by House and Hip Hop dancers to involve a jumping motion that could work with fast-paced club music.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
22. Hit Dem Folks
The move “Hit Dem Folks” was coined and popularized by Georgia rapper Bankroll Fresh in 2015.
It was originally considered the dance move for non-dancers - you know, the people who would be out and about at clubs or parties, but didn’t do a lot of dancing... unless something with a fire bass beat came on.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
23. Hit The Quan
Ever see the “Flex” music video by Rich Homie Quan where he’s hitting a little groove?
Well that little groove inspired a huge viral dance!
Rapper iHeartMemphis loved the groove so much that he created a short dance based entirely around it, along with a song and music video called “Hit the Quan” as a tribute.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
24. Humpty Dance
In the 90’s, a Hip Hop group called Digital Underground came out with a song called "The Humpty Dance."
The dance they did in the music video got so popular, that it became party staple.
The Humpty Dance can feel like a full-body workout but it's super fun to do!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
25. Jerk
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.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
26. Juju On That Beat
This viral social dance comes from Zay Hilfigerrr and his song “Juju on that Beat.”
It’s meant to be done at parties when you just wanna swag out with friends.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
27. Knee Spins
Knee spins can be executed with a feminine or masculine energy, making them a universally loved move.
And while they may look tricky to execute, they’re surprisingly simple!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
28. Love Shot
The “Love Shot” dance move, choreographed by Mihawk Back, is all about starting off sharp and ending with a wavy body motion.
It's a move that's universally loved by K-Pop fans since it has such a powerful vibe!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
29. Mic Drop
The “Mic Drop” dance move, choreographed by Lyle Beniga, has a swaggy vibe that'll have you feeling yourself!
Plus, it's the perfect move to break out when you wanna imagine you're putting some haters in their place. ;)
Watch the move demonstrated here:
30. Milly Rock
This move was popularized by rapper 2 Milly’s song and music video, “Milly Rock.”
It’s full-body, swaggy dance that’s perfect for social settings.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
31. Monestary
The Monestary dance move was named after a popular dance club in St. Louis, called club Monestary.
Some call this move the Chicken Head, while others say it’s similar to the Chicken Head.
Bottom line is, when it comes to social dancing and party scenes, the Monestary is a fun groove that'll work with a lot of songs.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
32. Moonwalk (Backslide)
The Moonwalk is one of the most popular dance moves of all time.
It was popularized by Michael Jackson, however, the dance existed long before MJ took the stage!
It was first called the Backslide, and you could see it being executed by dancers as early as the 1930s, especially in Jazz performances. It later became a staple in the Popping community.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
33. Nae Nae
This dance was created by the rap group We Are Toonz who had a song called “Drop That #NaeNae.”
It’s frequently paired up with the Whip dance move, and it’s all about wilding out and having fun on the dance floor.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
34. New School Smurf
This version of the Smurf blew up in the 90s at clubs and parties.
It’s a great Hip Hop move that you can add your own swag to since it allows you to both bounce and rock to the beat!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
35. Open Close Knees
This move is a hot girl staple that you’ve probably seen in tons of TikTok routines and dance videos!
It’s simple, sexy, and easy to apply to any vibey song.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
36. Prep
This move was named after the preppy college kids who were starting to go to clubs in the 80s.
The kids would do this easygoing rock move in order to keep themselves from sweating in their nice clothes!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
37. Reebok
The Reebok was named after the Reebok shoe brand just as it was taking over the shelves during the 1980s.
The move is often paired up with the Cabbage Patch since both moves became crazes around the same time.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
38. Reject
The Reject is a foundational movement of Jerkin' – a Hip Hop style that comes from California.
It's meant to look like you're skipping backward as if you're rejecting something in front of you.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
39. Roger Rabbit
This dance is named after the 90s movie Who Framed Roger Rabbit.
Your arms and legs are meant to look floppy and silly like an animated cartoon character!
It’s the perfect move to use with a fun 80s or 90s Hip Hop track.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
40. Running Man
The Running Man was arguably one of the most popular social dances throughout the 80s and 90s.
It was featured on TV shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel Air, and tons of celebrities would use the move in music videos and stage performances.
It’s all about pumping your arms and going full out to match the energy of the song you’re getting down to!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
41. Scoop Arm Into Hip
Ah, yes! That one TikTok move that’s popped up in every other dance challenge!
I mean, who doesn’t want to try this smooth combo move with hip action, right?
The Scoop Arm Into Hip combo allows you to look both sassy and powerful at the same time, so be sure to make eye contact with your audience (or camera lens) and exude some confident energy as you hit it.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
42. Shoot
You may have seen it on Fortnite, but the Shoot was originally popularized by the rapper BlocBoy JB and his song “Shoot.”
Then, it became even more popular when BlocBoy JB brought the dance to his music video collab with Drake for “Look Alive.”
Watch the move demonstrated here:
43. Sorry, Sorry
The “Sorry, Sorry” dance move, choreographed by Nick Bass and Trent Dickens, is basically a bounce with a cool hand gesture.
Since Super Junior was one of the first K-Pop bands to become a mainstream, global success, this move is still considered a favorite over a decade after it came out!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
44. Spongebob
The Spongebob was originally created in the 90’s as a Baltimore club dance. Baltimore club music was known for it’s fast-paced music so that’s why the dance is so bouncy and quick.
The Spongebob became even more popular amongst dancers in 2010 during the Jerking era.
What’s funny is that the name has nothing to do with the cartoon SpongeBob! The final name for the move emerged on the streets of Baltimore, but the cartoon wasn't a cited inspiration for the move when it first appeared in clubs.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
45. Steve Martin
The Steve Martin is one of those dance moves that can't help but smile while doing – it’s linked to the famous actor and comedian Steve Martin!
Some of the crazy moves he used to hit in 70’s movies became the inspiration for this dance, which went on to become even more popular in the 80's.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
46. Swagg Bouncee
The Swagg Bouncee was popularized by choreographer Lil Rich Swagg who would use the groove throughout his choreography and social posts.
You wanna stay steezy throughout the move by keeping a laidback, confident energy as you rock from side to side.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
47. Taemin Hip Sway
Taemin's “MOVE” dance routine, choreographed by Koharu Sugawara, is known for being a tricky piece to master.
But the most popular move from the choreography is all about the theme, “less is more."
A life lesson intertwined in a dance lesson?! We are here for it!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
48. The Carlton
The Carlton dance move was popularized by the show The Fresh Prince of Bel Air.
The actor Alfonso Ribeiro, who played the character Carlton and created the dance, has said he was inspired by the movements Bruce Springsteen makes in his video, “Dancing In The Dark.”
It’s meant to be a little silly and comedic, so have fun widdit!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
49. The Fila
Similarly to the Reebok, this move is named after a well-known shoe brand – Fila!
There are two versions of this move that are based on slightly different grooves, but the moves are similar enough that you can learn ‘em both and use them to the same song.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
50. Throw It Back
This move was popularized through a TikTok challenge where groups of friends would walk in front of the camera one at a time and Throw it Back right on the bass beat of the viral “Throw it Back” sound from TikToker Tay.
Due to the body rolling and booty movements, the dance is considered pretty feminine, but if you’re a guy, fear not – it looks good on everybody.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
51. Twerk
Though it’s nothing new, Twerking has become one of the most popular dance moves in current culture.
So if you’re ready to hop on the Twerk train, this basic version is the best place to start!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
52. Twerk (In Squat)
Twerking in a squat position is another classic baddie move, but this version allows you to play with your levels a little more!
And ever since Megan Thee Stallion released “Hot Girl Summer,” dropping into a squat position for a ground-shaking Twerk has been the go-to move for femmes everywhere.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
53. Twerk Booty Shake
Learning how to shake your booty is surprisingly easy – you just have to go into the process with a relaxed attitude (and relaxed muscles ;))
Contrary to popular belief, you don't need a ton of junk in your trunk in order to make it shake.
It's all about rocking your hips from side to side and allowing your booty to jiggle by releasing the tension in your back muscles.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
54. Twerk On All Fours
Twerking on the floor is one of those sexy dance moves that seems to be part of every other routine, workout, and dance challenge!
Learn this move so you can slay on TikTok, in dance class, or in the bedroom.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
55. Walk It Out
Remember that song by rapper DJ Unk from the early 2000’s, called "Walk It Out"?
That move they did in the video became a fun party dance, that's still used to this day!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
56. Wannabe
ITZY's “Wannabe” dance move, choreographed by Lee Jung lee, is a fancy shoulder shimmy that just screams confidence.
As a group, ITZY is all about self-acceptance and self-love, so you can totally bring your personal swag to this one.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
57. Whip
This dance was created in the early 2000s, but it was repopularized by the dancer King Imprint in 2013 who was emulating driving a car in his videos.
As you do this move, you wanna really emphasize the idea that you’re grabbing a steering wheel and turning it as if you’re about to drift!
Watch the move demonstrated here:
58. Woah
This hard-hitting, fun dance move comes from Dallas, and was first popularized by DJs!
You want to pretend like you’re running into a wall when you hit the Woah – when the bass hits, you’ll freeze your body and then bounce off that imaginary wall with a little reverb.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
59. Wop
This is a dance that was recently revitalized in 2011 when a song called “Wop” came out, however, the dance has been around for quite a while!
The Wop actually came out in the 80s, and there were several songs that referenced the dance.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
60. Wu Tang
The Wu Tang is a fast-paced, strong, aggressive dance that should make you feel like you’re battling someone in the club.
Although, it’s likely that the name has nothing to do with the rap group of the same name!
While the exact birthplace of the Wu Tang is contested, most dancers agree that it emerged in Philadelphia and eventually became a staple move in the Florida dance scene.
Watch the move demonstrated here:
