Mastering the Bieber: The Mechanics of the Kick-Step-Step
In short: Hip-hop dance is often about the illusion of effortless movement. To pull off the iconic kick-step-step popularized by Justin Bieber, you have to coordinate a precise sequence of weight shifts, jumps, and body rotations. It is a rhythmic cycle of extension and switching that requires timing over raw power.
The kick-step-step is a foundational hip-hop move that relies on a repetitive, alternating pattern. The core mechanic involves extending one leg straight out in front of the body, followed by a jump to switch to the opposite leg. This transition is not a simple step; it requires the dancer to lift the opposite foot into the air while simultaneously rotating the body to face the new direction. The movement begins by putting the right foot out straight. This sequence is then repeated starting with the left foot. Dancers must learn to switch the lead leg during the jump.
To execute the move correctly, the dancer must focus on the 'switch and turn' phase. While one leg is extended, the other must jump to take over the lead position. The 'turn' refers to a rotation of the entire upper body to align with the new foot placement. This creates a fluid, continuous motion where the dancer moves from right to left and back again, maintaining a steady cadence. The instructor suggests counting off the rhythm with a five, six, seven, eight beat. This helps maintain the correct pace for the switch. The goal is to make the transition look seamless.
While the feet provide the structure, the upper body provides the style. The hands are free to move independently of the footwork, allowing for various expressive gestures. One common technique involves matching the rhythmic 'right, left, right' footwork with synchronized arm movements. By practicing the sequence slowly—focusing on the 'leg out, switch, and turn' cycle—dancers can build the muscle memory needed to perform the move at full speed. One specific arm motion involves a ta, ta, ta pattern. Another variation uses a boom, boom, ha rhythm. These gestures can be swapped out to change the overall look.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Kick Step like Justin Bieber | Kids Hip-Hop Moves
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