born to hand jive dance tutorial

"Born to Hand Jive: Learn the Iconic Dance Move"

By Mark GarciaFebruary 12, 2026

Are you ready to add some retro flair to your dance repertoire? Look no further than the Born to Hand Jive, a lively and energetic dance that's sure to get you moving and grooving. This 1950s-inspired dance is a fun and engaging way to connect with your inner rockabilly spirit. In this comprehensive tutorial, we'll guide you through the steps, provide tips for mastering the moves, and even suggest some music to get you in the mood.

What is the Born to Hand Jive?

The Born to Hand Jive is a partner dance that originated in the 1950s, inspired by the jitterbug and swing dances of the era. It's characterized by its lively rhythm, quick steps, and dynamic arm movements. The dance is typically performed to fast-paced rock 'n' roll music, making it an exciting and energetic addition to any dance floor.

Getting Started: Music and Footwork

Before you dive into the steps, it's essential to find the right music and master the basic footwork. The Born to Hand Jive is usually danced to music around 180-200 beats per minute (bpm). Some popular songs to get you started include "Born to Hand Jive" by Johnny Otis, "Hound Dog" by Elvis Presley, and "Shake, Rattle and Roll" by Bill Haley & His Comets.

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Now, let's focus on the footwork. The Born to Hand Jive is based on a simple 6-count step:

Step forward with your left foot (1)
Step forward with your right foot (2)
Step back with your left foot (3)
Step back with your right foot (4)
Shuffle your left foot to the side (5)
Shuffle your right foot to the side (6)

Practice this footwork until you're comfortable with the rhythm. Once you've got the hang of it, you're ready to learn the dance steps.

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Basic Steps and Moves

Now that you've mastered the footwork, it's time to add some excitement with these basic steps and moves:

Step	Description
Promenade	Walk around your partner in a circle, using the 6-count footwork. This move can be done in either direction.
Underarm Turn	Your partner will turn under your arm, using the 6-count footwork. To make this move more dynamic, try adding a spin or a dip.
Scoot 'n' Boogie	Step side to side with your partner, alternating between facing each other and turning away. Use the 6-count footwork for this move.

Tips for Mastering the Born to Hand Jive

Now that you've learned the basic steps and moves, here are some tips to help you master the Born to Hand Jive:

Listen to the music: Pay close attention to the rhythm and let it guide your movements.
Practice with a partner: The Born to Hand Jive is a partner dance, so practicing with someone else will help you understand the dynamics of the dance.
Focus on your arms: The dynamic arm movements are a key feature of the Born to Hand Jive. Practice different arm variations to add your own unique style to the dance.
Have fun: The Born to Hand Jive is all about energy and enthusiasm. Don't be afraid to let loose and enjoy the dance!

With these tips in mind, you're well on your way to becoming a Born to Hand Jive pro. So put on your favorite rock 'n' roll tunes, find a partner, and get ready to jive the night away!