The thrill of learning new dance moves, especially the captivating and social line dances, is an experience many enjoy. One popular and engaging dance that has captured the hearts of dance enthusiasts worldwide is the "Ok with me" line dance. With its upbeat rhythm and memorable steps, it's no surprise that this dance has become a staple in dance halls and social gatherings alike. But where do you start if you're eager to learn this dance? Here, we provide a comprehensive guide, including a step sheet, to help you master the "Ok with me" line dance.
Before diving into the steps, let's briefly explore the origins of the "Ok with me" line dance. Choreographed by Kieren Nelson in 1997, this dance gained popularity through the dance fitness Jellybeans program in the UK. Since then, it has spread globally, becoming a beloved addition to dance floors worldwide. Now, let's learn this exciting dance with our step-by-step guide.
Understanding the Basic Steps
To begin with, the "Ok with me" line dance is a 48-beat dance, meaning you'll repeat each set of steps eight times to complete the dance. It's essential to become familiar with the basic steps, known as the "walkers" in line dance terminology.
Here are the basic steps you'll use throughout the dance:
- Step Touch: Step your right foot to the side, then bring your left foot to meet it.
- Grapevine: Step your right foot across in front of your left, then step your left foot behind your right, meeting your right foot.
準備 (Preparation) - Beats 1 to 8
Start with your feet Together in a standard ballroom hold (open your feet 6-12 inches apart).
Repeat the following steps 2 times:
- Step Touch to the Right
- Grapevine to the Left
- Step Touch to the Left
- Grapevine to the Right
ون (One) - Beats 9 to 16
From your final position (facing the line of dance), repeat the following 2 times:
- Step Touch to the Right
- Grapevine across to the Right
- Heel Turn clockwise to face the Center (180 degrees)
- Step Touch to the Right
Continue to alternate between these two sections, consisting of 16 beats, until you complete the entire 48-beat dance.
Advanced Moves and Variations
Once you've mastered the basic steps, you can introduce some stylish variations and advanced moves to spice up your "Ok with me" line dance. Let's explore some of these moves.
Side Shuffles
A side shuffle involves moving backwards and forwards while shuffling your feet.
To include side shuffles in your "Ok with me" line dance, replace the Grapevine steps in the Preparation section with a Side Shuffle:
- Step your right foot to the side, then bring your left foot to meet it, shuffling your feet backwards.
- Repeat this move, shuffling your feet forward.
Hops and Turns
To add some flair to your dance, incorporate hops and turns into your steps. For example, instead of a simple Step Touch, hop on one foot, then bring your other foot to meet it, generating some height in your step.
Similarly, instead of a Heel Turn, try a Ball Change Turn. To do this, hop on one foot, then change your weight onto the ball of your other foot, spinning 180 degrees.
Embrace the spirit of line dancing – have fun, be sociable, and enjoy the rhythm and beat of the "Ok with me" line dance. Keep practicing your steps, incorporating variations and advanced moves as your confidence grows. Before you know it, you'll be dancing like a pro and enjoying the camaraderie that line dancing fosters. So, grab your dance shoes and start moving to the beat of the "Ok with me" line dance today!