If you pick a song you aren’t passionate about, your moves will reflect your disinterest. Select a song that you won’t get sick of. You’re going to listen to this song over and over again as you practice it, so make sure you pick a song that you really love! If you grow tired of the song, it may make you disinterested in your performance.
For example, you can choose a hip-hop, Latin, or jazz song.
For example, you can do a front handspring as the first verse transitions to the chorus and then use a toe turn when the song picks up in speed.
There are countless other stretching techniques you can utilize to gain flexibility. In addition, take a yoga class! Do this after you can comfortably do basic stretches. A yoga glass is a great way to stretch your whole body and learn new stretching techniques.
To do a tumbling roll, stand with your feet hip distance apart, and bring your hands to the mat. Tuck your chin towards your stomach, and bend your arms to bring your shoulders to the mat. As you do this, roll over and bring your legs in front of you. Then, stand up. [4] X Research source To do a toe turn, start with your non-dominant leg in the lunge position. Then, extend 1 arm out to the side, and bring your other arm across your body at your stomach. Bring your non-dominant foot up towards your ankle so you are balanced on 1 foot. Finally, use your body weight to spin you around 360 degrees on your toes. [5] X Research source To do a cartwheel, start in the lunge position with your strongest foot forward. Bring both of your arms straight over your head. Face forward, and bring your hands to the mat. As you do this, bring your back leg upwards. Then, push off on the leg in front, and bring both of your legs across your body. Land on both feet in a lunge position to complete your cartwheel. [6] X Research source
Advanced moves include round-off, front handspring, and back handspring.
For example, if you pick a jazz-inspired song, you can use fast-paced swing moves to make your performance special. If your song has an Indian style, you can add some belly dancing moves to your routine.
For example, maybe you’re great at round-offs but your handsprings are still rusty. Leave the handsprings out of your routine, so you don’t worry about potentially messing up.
This way, the audience gets excited for a terrific routine from the get-go.
For example, if you’re dancing to a hip-hop song, you can do the whip, dab, or nae-nae. If you selected a Latin salsa dance song, you can shake your hips like Shakira.
When the song is slower, it is a good time for you to slow your body down as well.
You can also do toe spins or splits, for instance.
For example, you can do a back handspring into a cartwheel into a full split.
Maybe you personalize your outfit or hair style, or maybe you pick a signature move. You can also improvise as a transition, for example.
Practicing boosts your confidence, so you can give your best performance possible. If you don’t have time to practice the routine completely, try to practice the song in parts. You can try the first half of the song and then practice the second half later, for instance.
This way, you can see where you need to improve and what moves look awesome!
Using floor-length, large mirrors works best to see yourself from all angles.
Most competitions are booked 3-6 months in advance, so you’ll have plenty of time to practice.
