Funky Step Beginnings

Want to get your classes started with high energy and fun, but not sure how to make it happen? Light the fire with this funky, straightforward step combination. How do you add funk? Use snaps, claps, shimmies, and hip and body rolls to jazz up traditional moves. Don’t forget to factor in the thump of the music!

Warm-Up: 32 Counts

Base

• 2 basic steps (8 counts)
• 3-knee repeater (8 counts)
• 2 more basic steps (8 counts)
• alternating kicks (8 counts)

Layer 1

• 10 marches (10 counts)
• 2-knee repeater (6 counts)
• 8 funky marches (8 counts)
• alternating kicks (8 counts)

Layer 2

• double stomps on ends of step with finger snaps (10 counts)
• 2-knee repeater (6 counts)
• 8 funky marches (make them big) (8 counts)
• alternating kicks (8 counts)

Layer 3

• double stomps on ends of step with finger snaps (10 counts)
• step up and lunge to front of step (6 counts)
• 8 funky marches around step (8 counts)
• alternating kicks (8 counts)

Layer 4

• double stomps on ends of step with finger snaps (10 counts)
• “rhythm” lunge: hold 1-2, lunge on 3, return 4-6 (6 counts)
• 8 funky marches around step (8 counts)
• alternating kicks (8 counts)

Layer 5

• double stomps on ends of step with finger snaps (10 counts)
• rhythm lunge (6 counts)
• 8 funky marches around step (8 counts)
• alternating kicks: first kick on floor, second on step (8 counts)

Layer 6

• double stomps on ends of step with finger snaps (10 counts)
• rhythm lunge (6 counts)
• 8 funky marches around step (8 counts)
• alternating kicks: add hip swivel (arms up on 2), return to step for kick (8 counts)

Final

• funky stomp on ends with finger snaps plus rhythm lunge (16 counts)
• walk around step with inside turns on corners or funky walk (8 counts)
• step kick or hip lift (arms up) on 2; arms down on 3; return to step with second kick (8 counts)

Finish with some simple rhythmic stretches to prepare joints and muscles for the workout.

Remember, this style of teaching is just another way to get your classes excited early. Teach this warm-up with or without the layers. Read your class to determine how far you can go and still keep everyone entertained and engaged.