How to master the Washing Machine: a fluid Latin dance move
In short: In the world of Zouk, the Washing Machine is a move defined by continuous, multi-directional body waves. It requires a delicate balance of leadership and follow, where the goal is to mimic a rhythmic, rolling motion rather than a series of rigid steps.
The Washing Machine is a multi-soli body movement in Zouk that relies on the ribcage moving in four distinct directions: right, back, left, and forward. To achieve the correct aesthetic, the lead must guide the partner through these transitions while the follower allows their body to lean into the direction of the movement. The goal is a smooth, continuous flow where the body feels as though it is being pushed from different sides—the right, the stomach, and the left.
Technical execution requires a specific closed hold where the lead places both hands on the follower's shoulder blades. This open position allows for greater range of motion. The sequence begins with a basic one-five step, followed by a setup move. On the count of one, the lead moves the partner to their left side (the follower's right) and then to their own right. The movement continues by stretching the arms to lead the partner away, then to the other side, and finally back to the center.
A common pitfall for beginners is maintaining a rigid posture. Instructors emphasize that dancers must keep their knees 'soft' and bent to stay planted in the ground. If the knees are too straight, the movement feels 'horrible'; if the dancer squats too much, the motion loses its intended shape. For the follower, the key is to rest the arms on top without pushing down, allowing them to feel the lead's motion and follow the waves and threads of the movement.
The move can be performed at various speeds and intensities. It can be smoothed out for a fluid effect or executed with a sharper, more syncopated rhythm. While the primary name is the Washing Machine, the movement is sometimes playfully referred to as the 'dryer' due to its rolling, mechanical nature.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Do the Zouk Washing Machine | Latin Dance
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