Buzz
The robot dance is a timeless and entertaining style that has captivated dancers since the 1960s. It entails executing deliberate, slow body movements to mimic the motions of a robot. Although it may seem daunting initially, mastering the robot dance becomes straightforward once you grasp fundamental techniques such as wobbling, pivoting, and body isolations. Once you've honed these skills, feel free to experiment with various robotic moves, including robotic arm gestures and executing the wave.
Key Steps
Getting Started
Utilize body isolations to emulate robotic movements while dancing. Body isolations involve moving specific body parts independently from the rest. Incorporating body isolations into your routine, such as moving only your head or a single arm, enhances the robotic effect of your dance performance.
- For instance, during your routine, you may transition one arm to a new position, pause momentarily, and then proceed to move the other arm.
Imitate the Wobble of a Machine After Each Move. Robots sway back and forth when they come to a stop or change positions. Emulate this movement by swaying your body from side to side a few times after completing a move. Move approximately 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) in each direction.
- For instance, after adjusting your arm's position, sway back and forth for added dramatic effect.
Maintain Firm Contact with the Ground.
Avoid dancing to the rhythm by stepping like you would in other dance styles, as it won't resemble robotic movement. Instead, keep your feet grounded and focus on moving your arms, torso, and head while dancing.
Pro Tip: Stay stationary while performing the robot dance. If movement is necessary, take deliberate, slow steps resembling robotic motions by lifting your leg with a bent knee, pausing, and then lowering it.
Rotate Your Feet to Change Direction. This allows you to alter your orientation rather than maintaining a fixed position throughout the dance. Simply lift your toes slightly and rotate on your heels, or lift your heels and rotate on your toes. After pivoting, re-establish contact with the ground.
- Pivoting instead of stepping contributes to a more authentic robotic appearance. With practice, your pivoting will seamlessly blend into your routine.
Execute Movements with Slow, Controlled Precision. Envision the deliberate motions of a machine. Every action is measured and purposeful. When performing the robot dance, eschew rapid, erratic movements as they detract from the robotic illusion. Instead, aim for deliberate, drawn-out motions with each maneuver.
Exploring New Techniques
Imitate Robot Arms by Bending Your Arms at a 90-Degree Angle. Start with your arms at your sides, then lift one arm straight out in front of you and bend it at a 90-degree angle. Repeat the same with the other arm, keeping both arms bent at 90-degree angles in front of your chest. Maintain this position while dancing, or gradually straighten your arms back out.
- By keeping your arms at a 90-degree angle, they'll resemble the movements of a robot's arms on hinges.
Experiment with Ticking Motions to Simulate Mechanical Control. Ticking involves moving a part of your body in isolated segments, creating a ticking effect. Try ticking your arms and torso by bending forward at your waist, lifting your arms, and pausing in between movements. Practice this motion slowly before gradually increasing your speed.
- Focus on precision and rhythm to enhance the robotic illusion.
Incorporate a Ticking Wave to Infuse Hip-Hop Elements into Your Routine. Begin with your arms extended at your sides and gradually move through the wave motion, pausing briefly at each segment. This ticking technique breaks down the wave into distinct parts, adding a robotic quality to the movement.
- Executing the ticking wave enhances the robotic aesthetic by emphasizing each component of the motion.
Lower Your Stance by Bending Your Knees for a Ground-Level Robot Dance. Bend both knees to approximately a 125-degree angle, maintaining this position as you dance. For added effect, incorporate arm movements such as pretending to push against an imaginary pole behind your knee.
- For dramatic flair, pair knee bending with arm gestures, and execute movements with controlled precision.
Imagine manipulating your legs with your hands. Start by bending your legs to a 125-degree angle. Then, raise your hand about 1 foot (0.30 m) above one knee and lift it smoothly, lifting your leg as if pulling it up with an invisible string.
- It may take some practice to maintain balance since you'll be standing on one leg.
Blend various movements to craft your unique routine. Crafting your routine allows you to hone your skills while providing a signature dance sequence. Select your favorite moves and rehearse them until you've memorized the routine.
Fun Fact: Originating in the 1960s, the robot dance was initially performed to funk music. Today, it's commonly associated with hip hop and techno beats. However, you can groove to the robot with any music genre you prefer!
