Whining is a well-loved dance style that originated in Africa and the Caribbean, now celebrated around the globe. It has gained immense popularity in places like the UK, Canada, the United States, and even Japan. To perform a waist whine, you’ll need to move your waist in smooth circular motions while keeping the rest of your body still. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to do it, with expert tips from dance instructor Yolanda Thomas, and delve into the rich cultural history of this dance. Let’s get started!
How do you master the art of whine dance?
Start by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, and move your waist in circular motions (either clockwise or counterclockwise). As you rotate your waist, bend and straighten your knees. To add more movement and variation, try swaying forward and backward, as well as side to side. Keep your back straight and keep your upper body steady.
Steps to Follow
How to Move Your Waist in a Whine Dance


- Take your time and go as slowly as necessary to get the hang of the movement. It may take some practice to move your waist while keeping your torso and shoulders in place.
- Continue rotating your hips slowly until you feel more confident. A helpful tip from hip-hop dance instructor Yolanda Thomas is to record yourself while practicing. “When you watch yourself on video, quick recovery from mistakes makes them less noticeable, allowing you to stay present in the moment,” she says.


- This side-to-side variation can be added to your routine, or you can keep your whine with minimal movement if preferred.


- Speed up as the music tempo increases and slow down when it decreases. Yolanda Thomas suggests, “Listen to the lyrics or the changes in the music for ideas on freestyling once you're familiar with whining.”

- Switching from side to side while whining can also bring a dynamic twist to your movements.

- To stretch, bend your right knee to a 90-degree angle, keeping your right foot flat. Stretch your left leg behind you, parallel to your other leg, and hold for 30 seconds. Then, switch legs.
- Lie on your back with knees bent at 90 degrees. Lift your right leg and bring your hips upward until they align perpendicular to your right leg. Raise your right leg toward the ceiling and lower it slightly. Repeat 10 times, then switch legs.
The Cultural Importance of Whining

- Though some may associate whining with twerking, they are distinct. While both dance styles come from African traditions, twerking has become sexualized in modern culture. Twerking tends to involve up-and-down motions, while whining is characterized by circular movements.
- Many believe that whining should be seen as a separate form from twerking, as it is deeply embedded in the culture of both the Caribbean and Africa.
- In some Western cultures, whining is viewed as vulgar due to its pelvic movements. This perception may stem from historical efforts to suppress African and Black cultures, or from Western preferences that idealize slimmer bodies, whereas African and Caribbean cultures celebrate curvier figures.
Can whining provide a good workout?

- Burns calories
- Boosts endurance
- Improves coordination throughout your body
- Enhances overall mobility
- Fun Fact: Stronger hip mobility can improve your balance, decrease injury risk, make recovery faster, and increase your overall movement ease.
Exercises and Stretches for Perfecting Your Waist Whine


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The most important thing is to enjoy yourself. Whining is a dance meant to be done at parties and lively gatherings, so just let loose and have fun.