Swing and precision on the dance floor
Jive is one of the most dynamic Latin dances in the world dance program. Once you have mastered the basics, it is time for new challenges. A guide to the Jive windmill shows you how to master one of the most elegant turning figures through skillful weight shifting and precise leading. This figure thrives on optical illusion: while the bodies move around each other, the arms circle like the blades of a windmill. It involves a typical body tension in dancing, which prevents the connection between leader and follower from breaking.
In contrast to pure kick combinations, the focus here is entirely on the upper body and the fluid hand change. The steps of the Jive windmill are based on continuous walking in a circle while the arms describe a circular motion. Good spatial orientation is crucial for this figure. Leader and follower must be aware of where the common axis lies at all times in order not to lose their balance. Anyone who masters these Jive figures for advanced dancers will immediately bring more dynamics and visual variety to every social dance round.
