Walk into any contemporary dance class and you might see dancers rolling across the floor, suspending in off-balance shapes, or moving with the raw vulnerability of a conversation they'd never have out loud. Unlike ballet's codified positions or hip-hop's rhythmic precision, contemporary dance borrows freely from multiple traditions—then breaks their rules. If that sounds both exciting and slightly terrifying, you're in the right place.
What Is Contemporary Dance? (And What It Isn't)
Contemporary dance is a dance style that combines elements of several genres, including modern, jazz, and ballet, then pushes beyond their boundaries. It's characterized by fluid and expressive movements, emotional storytelling, and a willingness to use the body in unconventional ways.
Though often used interchangeably, "modern" and "contemporary" dance aren't identical. Modern dance (think Martha Graham, Merce Cunningham) refers to specific techniques developed in the early-to-mid 20th century. Contemporary dance, which emerged in the 1960s and continues evolving, has no single technique—it's defined by its questioning of technique itself. Where modern dance built systems, contemporary dance asks: what happens when we let those systems dissolve?
Today, companies like Batsheva Dance Company, Crystal Pite's Kidd Pivot, and choreographers such as Hofesh Shechter and Akram Khan continue reshaping what contemporary dance can be—drawing from martial arts, social dance, text, and digital media.
Getting Started: Your First Steps
Find the Right Class
Search for "beginner contemporary" or "contemporary fundamentals" rather than open-level classes. Look for instructors who mention "release technique," "Graham," "Cunningham," or "contact improvisation" in their bios—these signal formal training. Avoid classes labeled "contemporary jazz" or "lyrical" if you want pure contemporary; these blend in ballet and competitive dance aesthetics.
If you're over 30, out of shape, or returning after years away, seek out "contemporary for adults" or "absolute beginner" specifically. Many studios now offer classes designed for people with professional lives and physical histories.
Dress for Movement (and the Floor)
Wear form-fitting clothing that allows you to move freely—leggings or jazz pants with a leotard or form-fitting top. Layers help; you'll warm up quickly then cool down during floor work.
Footwear matters. Most contemporary classes are barefoot, but consider these options:
- Barefoot: Standard for most classes; builds foot strength but offers no protection
- Foot undies/thongs: Minimal coverage for sensitive soles during turns
- Gripsocks: Useful for slippery studio floors, though some instructors discourage them
- Knee pads: Highly recommended for your first month if you have sensitive joints
Trim your toenails. Barefoot floor work is unforgiving.
Understand Your Relationship with the Floor
Unlike ballet or jazz, contemporary dance treats the floor as a partner, not just a surface. You'll learn to fall safely, roll through your spine, and transition between vertical and horizontal levels. This floor work—sweeps, slides, weight-sharing with the ground—forms the backbone of contemporary technique.
Expect to spend significant time close to or on the floor. If you have wrist, knee, or back concerns, inform your instructor before class.
Warm Up Properly
As with any dance style, warming up is non-negotiable. Contemporary classes typically include:
- Breath work and gentle mobilization
- Spine articulations and core activation
- Dynamic stretching rather than static holds
- Light cardio to elevate heart rate
Arrive 10-15 minutes early to warm up on your own if the class doesn't include sufficient preparation.
Learn the Basics—Then Unlearn Them
Start with foundational movements: walking with intention, running with weight shifts, jumping with landing mechanics. Then add contemporary-specific elements:
- Contractions and releases: Drawing from Graham technique, coiling and expanding the torso
- Falls and recoveries: Controlled descents to and from the floor
- Improvisation: Structured exploration of your own movement vocabulary
Yes, improvisation. It's central to contemporary practice and often intimidates newcomers most. Begin with guided improvisations—specific prompts like "move as if through water" or "initiate from your tailbone"—rather than completely open exploration.
Build a Sustainable Practice
Like any skill, contemporary dance requires consistency. Aim for:
- Weekly classes minimum to retain muscle memory
- Home practice for 15-20 minutes, focusing on floor work and stretching
- Cross-training such as yoga, Pilates, or swimming to build the core strength and flexibility contemporary demands
Leveling Up: Tips for Growth
Move From Emotion, Not Just to It
Resist the urge to mime feelings or act out lyrics. Contemporary dance asks you
