Zouk Library

The complete vocabulary of Brazilian Zouk moves and concepts. Concepts are the underlying principles; moves are the patterns built on them.

This library is a work in progress. We're constantly adding more concepts, moves, and interactive visualisations. It also reflects my best understanding of zouk up to now, and that can develop over time.

Concept
Move

Fundamentals

Concepts
Lead/Follow Connection
Lead/Follow Connection

The foundational connection between leader and follower.

Contra-Body Movement
Contra-Body Movement

The natural opposition between upper and lower body - how twisting through the torso creates fluidity in movement.

Requires: Lead/Follow Connection
Music & Rhythm
Music & Rhythm

The timing structure of zouk and how steps align with the music's beat and phrasing.

Hand Holds
Hand Holds

The different kinds of ways we can hold each other's hands.

Different Holds & Embraces
Different Holds & Embraces

The various hand and body positions used to connect with your partner - close embrace, open hold, and more.

Requires: Lead/Follow Connection Hand Holds
Elasticity
Elasticity

The stretch and recoil in the connection, creating and releasing tension to generate movement.

Requires: Lead/Follow Connection concepts/hand-holds
Levels
Levels

Varying the height of the dance - going low, rising up, or shifting between levels to facilitate communication of intent.

Premovement
Premovement

Extending your foot out to a spot before shifting your weight to it.

Requires: Levels
Stepping
Stepping

The basics of weight transfer and foot placement — how to step with intention and control.

Requires: Music & Rhythm Premovement
Torsion
Torsion

How the twist of the body communicates movement in Zouk.

Requires: Contra-Body Movement
Compass Step
Compass Step

The fundamental footwork mechanic of stepping and pivoting on the ball of the foot to change direction.

Requires: Stepping Torsion
Lines
Lines

The structure of a particular dancer's path used as a reference

Requires: Compass Step Stepping
Communicating Intention
Communicating Intention

Using body structure and energy to transmit movement information.

Requires: Lead/Follow Connection Different Holds & Embraces Compass Step Torsion Lines
Moves

Undulations

Coming soon

Head Movements

Coming soon

Spins

Coming soon

Counterbalance

Coming soon

Musicality

Coming soon

13 concepts · 9 moves · 6 categories