So you’ve nailed the basics of Lindy Hop—your swing-outs are smooth, your triple steps bounce, and you’re no longer counting beats out loud (we’ve all been there). Now, it’s time to level up. Advanced Lindy Hop isn’t just about flashy aerials; it’s about musicality, connection, and making complex moves feel effortless. Here are the essential advanced moves to weave into your dance vocabulary.
1. The Texas Tommy: Classic with a Twist
This vintage move looks simple but demands precision. The key? A controlled release-and-catch dynamic. Leaders: initiate the send-out with a clear lead, then redirect your follower’s momentum into the wrap. Followers: stay light on your feet—this isn’t a tug-of-war. Pro tip: Sync the final pop to a trumpet accent for extra flair.
2. Swivels for Days (Followers, This Is Your Power Move)
Advanced followers, swivels are your secret weapon. Master the double-axis swivel by isolating your hips while keeping your upper body relaxed. Pair them with syncopated footwork (think: slow-slow-quick-quick) to match jazz solos. Leaders, support this by giving followers space—no micro-managing!
3. The Jazz Slide: Steal the Spotlight
Popularized by Frankie Manning, the jazz slide is pure joy. Start from a tandem Charleston position, then slide back with a deep knee bend, arms outstretched. The magic? Timing it to a dramatic musical break. Warning: Prepare for cheers from the sidelines.
4. Dynamic Stops & Hits
Advanced Lindy is a conversation with the music. Practice hitting breaks by freezing mid-move (e.g., during a swing-out) on a drum crash. Both partners should anticipate the stop—communication is nonverbal but unmistakable. Bonus: Add a body roll or shimmy during the pause for texture.
5. The Flying Charleston
No, it’s not an aerial (safety first!), but this high-energy variation of side-by-side Charleston incorporates jumps, kicks, and playful leans. Keep your core engaged and land softly to avoid knee strain. Perfect for fast tempos—when the band kicks into high gear, so do you.
6. Behind-the-Back Passes
A slick way to transition between moves. Leaders, practice passing the follower’s hand behind your back during a turn without breaking momentum. Followers: stay responsive but don’t anticipate—let the lead guide you. Works brilliantly with bluesy, slow-burn songs.
Pro Tips for Mastery
- Drill with intent: Isolate tricky segments (e.g., the Texas Tommy wrap) at half-time before speeding up.
- Musicality > Complexity: A well-timed rock step resonates more than a messy sequence of flashy moves.
- Film yourself: Review footage to spot tension or misalignment—your future self will thank you.
Advanced Lindy Hop thrives on partnership and creativity. So next time you hit the social floor, play with these moves, but remember: the best dancers aren’t just technically skilled—they’re storytellers. Now go swing out like you mean it!
