How To Dance Confidently In Heels
Dancing in heels can look glamorous, elegant, and bold. But for many, stepping onto the dance floor in high heels can feel intimidating. Whether you're aiming to master basic moves or bring more confidence to the dance floor, learning how to dance confidently in heels is a journey of both technique and self-assurance. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to dance confidently in heels, from the right footwear to foundational moves.
What is Heels Dance?
Heels dance is a style of dance performed in high heels, often focusing on sensual, feminine movements. Originating from jazz and hip-hop dance traditions, heels dance emphasizes confidence, fluidity, and expression. Heels routines are popular in many dance studios, especially those focusing on urban and contemporary styles. Whether in the form of pop choreography, cabaret, or urban styles, heels dancing is all about combining rhythm, poise, and personality.
What You Need to Heels Dance
Before you hit the dance floor in your favorite heels, there are a few essentials you’ll want to consider. Here’s what you need to get started with heels dance:
A Good Pair of Heels
A good pair of heels is crucial. Look for heels that have sturdy support, a comfortable insole, and a heel height you can walk in easily. Beginner dancers often start with lower heels around 2-3 inches, while more experienced dancers might go for stilettos or platforms. Make sure your shoes have a secure fit to avoid slipping or wobbling.
The Right Outfit
Comfort is key when it comes to dance outfits. Choose clothing that allows you to move freely and enhances your confidence. Tight-fitted leggings, stretchy skirts, or shorts paired with a crop top or dance top are popular choices for heels dancing. Outfits that highlight body lines help dancers see their form and stay aware of their posture.
Dance Experience
While heels dancing is open to everyone, a background in basic dance styles, such as jazz or contemporary, can be helpful. Basic dance experience allows for easier adaptation to the balance and coordination needed for dancing in heels. For beginners, starting with foundational moves and poses can help build confidence and set the stage for more complex routines.
The Different Types of Heels for Heels Dance
The type of heel you wear affects your stability, movement, and comfort while dancing. Here’s a breakdown of the main types of heels used in heels dancing:
Standard Heels
Standard heels, often with a 2-3 inch height, are the go-to choice for beginners. These heels have a thicker base, making them ideal for dancers new to moving in high heels. Standard heels allow for flexibility and stability, making it easier to transition between different dance moves.
Latin Heels
Latin heels are commonly used in styles such as salsa and ballroom dancing. These heels have a slimmer, slightly angled heel which promotes easier pivots and turns. With their lower center of gravity, Latin heels encourage more fluid movements, making them a good choice for experienced dancers who want to add spins or intricate footwork to their routines.
Show Heels
Show heels, or performance heels, are often worn by dancers in stage performances or cabaret. These heels are higher and tend to have a narrow, stiletto heel that requires advanced balance and control. Show heels are ideal for confident dancers looking to make a bold statement, but they may be challenging for beginners due to their height and slender design.
How to Get Started
Getting started with heels dance requires more than just slipping on a pair of high heels. Here are some foundational tips and moves to help you build confidence in heels dancing.
Picking the Right Shoes
When choosing your shoes, aim for a heel height and style that feels stable and comfortable. Beginners might want to start with a thicker, shorter heel, such as a chunky or block heel, while advanced dancers can experiment with stilettos. A secure fit with ankle support is essential to prevent slipping or twisting.
Walking in Heels
Mastering a graceful walk in heels is a vital first step. Practice walking with one foot in front of the other, landing on the ball of your foot before shifting weight to your heel. Keep your shoulders back, core engaged, and try to maintain an upright posture. With a bit of practice, your walk will feel more natural and poised.
Hitting a Pose
Striking a pose is an essential part of heels dance. Practice shifting your weight from one hip to the other while keeping your torso upright. To add flair, extend one leg, place your hand on your hip, and hold the pose confidently. Learning a few basic poses will help you feel more relaxed and expressive during a dance.
Sensual Movements
Heels dancing often incorporates sensual, flowing movements that add personality to the performance. Practice body rolls, hip circles, and arm waves to get comfortable with these movements. By engaging your core and coordinating movements between your upper and lower body, you can bring a smooth, elegant look to your dance.
Turning in Heels
Turning in heels can feel challenging at first, but with practice, it becomes easier. Start by practicing basic turns without losing your balance, such as a simple pivot turn. To do this, step forward with one foot, pivot on the ball of your foot, and bring your body around to face the opposite direction. Remember to spot a fixed point with your eyes to help maintain balance.
Conclusion
Learning how to dance confidently in heels takes patience, practice, and the right preparation. With the right shoes, outfit, and foundational dance skills, you’ll be well on your way to mastering heels dancing. Start with basics like walking, posing, and simple turns, and gradually add more flair as you build confidence. Whether you’re dancing for fun, fitness, or self-expression, heels dancing can be an empowering way to celebrate movement, strength, and style. So, put on those heels, hit the dance floor, and embrace the journey of dancing confidently in high heels!
