Jazz Funk – Basics and Video Tutorials

Jazz funk is one of the youngest modern dances — it's only about 20 years old. It emerged as a synthesis of hip-hop, breaking, locking, and popping, taking the best from each style. Yes, the technique requires attention and practice, but it's realistic to master — without six-pack abs or years of experience. GoDance's catalog includes over 1,500 video lessons, including jazz funk for different levels. Here's a step-by-step guide to get started.

1. Understand the thrusts.

A jazz funk dancer should exude life energy and power. They seem electrified. This effect is created through the "thrust." It comes from within. From the shoulders, legs, chest, arms, hips... It depends on the dance technique. Movements are chaotic and sharp. After the "thrust" comes a "hold." You need to stay in that position until you rest and can make the next "thrust" just as unexpectedly.

2. Learn to switch one move to its complete opposite.

Jazz funk is a dance of opposites; you can never predict what move will come next. To avoid vulgar transitions, you need to practice a lot. Try starting with slow free dance, then move to hip-hop, followed by calm stretching, and then impulsive jazz. The dancer in funk imitates the flight of human thought. You never know where it will be in a minute. So try to portray this state with your body.

3. Pay attention to your legs.

Legs play a crucial role in your dance. To make jazz funk look beautiful and sensual, you need to work on steps and slides.

4. Make "waves" with your arms, develop fluidity.

Arms are also important in jazz funk. Most dancers make "waves" with them, imitating the sea. Don't be afraid to let your imagination run wild. "Waves" can be completely different: smooth, broken, swift, and calm.

5. Additionally work on gymnastics and acrobatics.

Jazz funk always puts a huge load on the body. Prepare it for that. Do stretching and overall muscle strengthening. That way the dance will be more attractive, and you'll find it easier and more enjoyable.

6. Understand jumps.

Remember what we said about legs? They are your main tool. So you need to know how to jump. Here's one way. You stand still, arms at your sides. Then bend your knees and lower yourself toward the floor without touching it. Imitate a squat. Your hands touch the floor. Then… a sharp thrust. Jump. Legs extended out to the sides.

7. Determine which style suits you best.

Jazz funk embodies the best traditions of free dance. Since it's relatively young, it's best to find which direction of jazz funk interests you, master it, and then add jazz elements. This will save you time and effort.

8. Learn turns.

Here's a method for one turn. Feet wide apart, one goes back. Make a semicircle with your right foot, lift your left. At the same time, rotate on half-bent knees and move your arms in a circle. To make it easier, we recommend doing it step by step. Legs, arms, knees. Then combine.

9. Remember the characteristics of jazz funk.

Despite combining features of different dances, jazz funk is not devoid of individuality. Remember that. For example, funk is characterized by smooth movements, small steps gradually replacing one another. Torso is straight, mood is changeable.

10. Find a teacher or start going to a studio.

Jazz funk is a complex dance. Without a teacher, it's hard to set choreography and other moves. It's better to attend at least one lesson to understand how to practice. The teacher will create a program for you. They will maintain your motivation level, and you'll likely learn to dance.