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.
Fundamentals
›The foundational connection between leader and follower.
The natural opposition between upper and lower body - how twisting through the torso creates fluidity in movement.
The timing structure of zouk and how steps align with the music's beat and phrasing.
The different kinds of ways we can hold each other's hands.
The various hand and body positions used to connect with your partner - close embrace, open hold, and more.
The stretch and recoil in the connection, creating and releasing tension to generate movement.
Varying the height of the dance - going low, rising up, or shifting between levels to facilitate communication of intent.
Extending your foot out to a spot before shifting your weight to it.
The basics of weight transfer and foot placement — how to step with intention and control.
How the twist of the body communicates movement in Zouk.
The fundamental footwork mechanic of stepping and pivoting on the ball of the foot to change direction.
The structure of a particular dancer's path used as a reference
Using body structure and energy to transmit movement information.
The foundational step pattern danced in place.
Adding forward-and-back to the basic step pattern.
The basic step while traveling across the floor — navigating the dance space with your partner.
The 'little turn' that allows you to enter into a side-by-side step with your partner
A side-stepping movement that creates a lateral travelling pattern across the floor.
A preparatory step used as an entry to other movements.
A simple turn, normally from lunge, where the follow steps back and completes a 360 degree turn.
A turn that moves through space — the couple rotates together while travelling across the floor.
A weight transfer that creates a pause in the basic, used as a foundation for many exits and variations.
Undulations
›Coming soon
Head Movements
›Coming soon
Spins
›Coming soon
Counterbalance
›Coming soon
Musicality
›Coming soon