3 Ways To Shake Your Hips - WikiHow

Home » How To Shake Your Hips » 3 Ways To Shake Your Hips - WikiHow

Maybe your like

Skip to ContentQuizzes
  • Home
  • Random
  • Browse Articles
  • Quizzes & Games
  • All QuizzesHot
  • Love Quizzes
  • Personality Quizzes
  • Fun Games
  • Dating Simulator
  • Learn Something New
  • Forums
  • Courses
  • Happiness Hub
  • Explore More
  • Support wikiHow
  • About wikiHow
  • Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow How to Shake Your Hips PDF download Download Article Explore this Article methods 1 Shaking Your Hips for Girls 2 Shaking Your Hips for Guys 3 Modifying Hip Shaking for Different Styles of Dance Other Sections Questions & Answers Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Co-authored by Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo

Last Updated: February 19, 2026

PDF download Download Article X

This article was co-authored by Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo. Daniele Cavallo and Leela Fazzuoli are Professional Latin Dance Instructors and the Co-Founders of Cavallo Dance AZ, a dance studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. With more than 20 years of experience each, they specialize in Latin dances, dance performances, and competition dance. They have expertise in Salsa and Bachata, Argentine Tango, Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, and Jive. This article has been viewed 180,960 times.

Many different dance moves and styles of dance require you to be able to shake your hips. This can take some practice for people who don't dance often. At first, it may feel strange or even too exaggerated when you do this dance move. It can help to practice in front of a mirror with some fun music. This article addresses how to do this dance move if you are a girl or a guy.

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Shaking Your Hips for Girls

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Stand with your feet just a bit more than a shoulder width apart, in front of a mirror. 1 Stand with your feet just a bit more than a shoulder width apart, in front of a mirror. This is the proper width for your feet when doing this dance move. It will help you engage your core muscles. You'll also want your knees to be slightly bent. You want to let your abs do the work when you shake your hips, not your legs or back.[1] You can think of the hip movement as the pendulum action of the clock.[2]
  2. Step 2 Step your right foot out a little bit. 2 Step your right foot out a little bit. It should go forward and to the right.[3] Swing your hips to the right with your foot.[4]
    • Make a big swooping motion with your hips to the front then to the right.
    • Finish the move by completing a circle with your hips to the back then to the front.
    • Keep your abdominal muscles tight and engaged as you do this.
    • Women will want to make this move very large and more dramatic, following the natural way their hips curve.
    Advertisement
  3. Step 3 Keep your torso mostly still as you do this. 3 Keep your torso mostly still as you do this. You only want your hips to move, not your entire upper body. At the most, you might want to complement the move of your hips by sliding your upper torso slightly to the left.
    • If you aren't doing it correctly, your hip movements might be too small or your upper torso might be moving with you.
  4. Step 4 Step your left foot out slightly. 4 Step your left foot out slightly. Now, you'll repeat the motions on the opposite side. Swing your hips to the left with your foot.[5]
    • Make a large swooping motion with your hips to the front then to the left.
    • Make sure your upper torso and chest are still when you shake your hips. You only want your hips to swing out, not the rest of your upper body.
    • If your upper torso is moving along with you, you aren't doing the move correctly.
    • Complete the move by swinging your hips to the back, then to the front.
    • Remember to use your abs rather than your legs or back muscles to help you do this dance move.
    • Make your motions big. These will feel exaggerated at first, but will look good during dancing. We'll show you how to modify your hip shake for different dance styles later.
  5. Step 5 Return your feet to their original position, about shoulder width apart. 5 Return your feet to their original position, about shoulder width apart. You can now combine the moves from the right and left. Remember to keep your knees slightly bent and your movements loose and flowing.[6]
    • Swing your hips out to the front, then to the right, along with your right foot.
    • Rotate them towards the back and to the left. Then repeat the same thing on the other side.
    • At the sides, pop your hips out for a bit more exaggeration.
    • Keep your motions big and energetic. Think about how Beyoncé dances. Her moves are full of fun and energy
    6. Advertisement
Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Shaking Your Hips for Guys

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Start with your feet shoulder width apart. 1 Start with your feet shoulder width apart. Face a mirror so you can watch as you practice. This is very similar to the method for how girls shake their hips, but for guys it will be less exaggerated and the move will be slightly different.[7]
    • This stance will provide stability as you perform the dance move.
    • Standing in this position will help you use your core muscles to perform the dance move.
    • You want to avoid using your back and leg muscles to swing your hips. The move will not look right and you could end up straining you muscles if not done properly.
  2. Step 2 Take a step to the side with your right foot. 2 Take a step to the side with your right foot. You will move your hips along with your foot to the right side.[8]
    • Tuck your pelvis under. This will prevent your moves from being wide and exaggerated.
    • Rotate your pelvis forward, then to the right.
    • Rotate it towards the back, then to the left again.
    • While you do this, keep your movements subtle and keep your pelvis tucked under.
    • When a guy does a hip shaking move in dance, it is typically a smaller more understated move than when a girl performs this type of dancing.
    • If you are doing this move correctly, your upper torso should stay still and in place. Your hips will not swing out dramatically to the side, but rather rotate in a small circle with your pelvis tucked under.
  3. Step 3 Repeat the process for the left side. 3 Repeat the process for the left side. Step out a little with your left foot to start. Then move your hips toward your foot.[9]
    • Tuck your pelvis under and rotate your hips forward and to the left.
    • Rotate the hips backwards, then back to the right.
    • Keep your motions smaller and not exaggerated.
  4. Step 4 Return your feet to the front, keeping your feet shoulder width apart. 4 Return your feet to the front, keeping your feet shoulder width apart. Combine the moves from the left and right to complete the dance move. Remember to keep your knees slightly bent and your movements loose.[10]
    • Tuck your pelvis under.
    • Rotate your hips forward, then to the right.
    • Then, rotate your hips backwards and to the left.
    • Repeat the same thing on the other side, and return to your original position.
    • Make sure your hips are moving independently. Your upper torso and chest should stay in place.
    • If your hips are swing too far to the side, you probably aren't tucking your pelvis forward and under as you move.
    • Think about how dancers like Usher and Michael Jackson move their hips. These are smaller, less emphasized motions than female dancers use, but are still full of energy!
    5. Advertisement
Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Modifying Hip Shaking for Different Styles of Dance

PDF download Download Article
  1. Step 1 Do some hip-hop or street dancing. 1 Do some hip-hop or street dancing. This will incorporate very energetic and exaggerated hip shaking moves, just like how they are described in Parts I and II.
    • Incorporate hip shaking along with pop and lock movements for street dancing.
    • Hip-hop dancing often also uses booty shaking along with hip shaking.
    • Move quickly and use music with a fast, strong beat.
    • Think about how energetic dancers like Beyoncé and other performers are when they move their hips.
  2. Step 2 Practice Latin dancing. 2 Practice Latin dancing. Hip movements are very key to how the body moves in Latin dance.[11]
    • In Latin dancing hip shaking is incorporated with rhythmic dance steps in dances like the tango and merengue.[12]
    • Dancers move their hips out when they step forward in back in rhythm with music.
    • As you perform a Latin style dance, you will be alternating steps with your right and left feet. As you step with your right foot, rotate that hip outwards slightly. Do the same when you step with your left foot.
    • Latin dancing incorporates more natural looking and subtle hip movements than hip hop and street dancing. With Latin dancing, you won't be exaggerating this movement, but allowing your hips to move loosely in a natural pattern.
    • Shakira is a very famous Latin artist famous for hip shaking. Her dancing is slightly more similar to contemporary hip-hop than traditional Latin dancing.
  3. Step 3 Try belly dancing. 3 Try belly dancing. Like with Latin dancing, hip movements are some of the most key aspects of belly dance.[13]
    • In belly dancing, hip shaking is one of the most important techniques
    • However, while hip movements are emphasized, they aren't always as exaggerated in belly dance.
    • Usually, heels are kept on the floor and the knees are straightened to lift the hips for a subtle movement.
    4. Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question
  • Question What if I don't understand it? Community Answer Community Answer This might be a easier way for you to understand: First, point your left foot, so your foot is on just the tip of its toe. When you did that, you saw how the left of your hip moved up, right? Then, with selected music, try doing the same thing, alternating your left and right foot with the rhythm. Now, the sides of your hips should be moving up and down. Try it again, except with a circular motion. Imagine you are stirring thick porridge. Make your "toe points" more discrete as you get comfortable with this motion. If you feel confident enough, try briefly lifting the foot on the side you are conveying weight to. You may also want to try watching other people. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 7
  • Question Is there any more advice on how to belly dance, belly roll and hip-shake? Community Answer Community Answer Belly dancing is a hard thing to pick up and takes lots and lots and lots of practice as well as a good instructor. It is the same with belly rolls and hip shaking. Just practice, maybe take some lessons and watch videos of people doing it. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 5 Helpful 2
  • Question How can I do this confidently? Community Answer Community Answer Pretend no one's watching you. That's probably the case anyway; everyone will be too focused on what they're doing to pay attention to exactly what you're doing. Just have fun with it! Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 0 Helpful 6
Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Tips

  • The mirror will help Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • If you are struggling to make something move or stop moving, use your hands to guide it or hold in place. It sounds weird, but the pressure of your hands will help. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • If you keep on doing this,you'll soon be able to do it without your hands on your waist. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
Show More Tips Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

You Might Also Like

Belly DanceHow toBelly Dance Bellydance Like ShakiraHow toBellydance Like Shakira Shake Your BootyA Beginner's Guide to Shaking Your Booty Dance SexilyHow toDance Sexily Dirty DanceHow toDirty Dance Booty PopA Beginner’s Guide to Booty Popping Dance ReggaetonHow toDance Reggaeton Dance Hip HopHow to Dance Hip Hop TwerkHow toTwerk Dance SexuallyHow toDance Sexually Do a Body RollHow toDo a Body Roll Booty BounceHow toBooty Bounce Do the Cha ChaLearning the Steps to the Cha Cha: A Dance Tutorial GrindHow toGrind Advertisement

References

  1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  2. ↑ Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo. Professional Latin Dance Instructors. Expert Interview
  3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  4. ↑ Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo. Professional Latin Dance Instructors. Expert Interview
  5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
More References (4)
  1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01xkJmo28cI
  2. ↑ http://dance.lovetoknow.com/Types_of_Latin_Dances
  3. ↑ Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo. Professional Latin Dance Instructors. Expert Interview
  4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3K62qZ2hGyw

About This Article

Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo Co-authored by: Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo Professional Latin Dance Instructors This article was co-authored by Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo. Daniele Cavallo and Leela Fazzuoli are Professional Latin Dance Instructors and the Co-Founders of Cavallo Dance AZ, a dance studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. With more than 20 years of experience each, they specialize in Latin dances, dance performances, and competition dance. They have expertise in Salsa and Bachata, Argentine Tango, Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, and Jive. This article has been viewed 180,960 times. 5 votes - 80% Co-authors: 14 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 180,960 Categories: Raunchy Dancing In other languages Spanish Portuguese German
  • Print
  • Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 180,960 times.

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo Co-authored by: Leela Fazzuoli & Daniele Cavallo Professional Latin Dance Instructors Co-authors: 14 Updated: February 19, 2026 Views: 180,960 80% of readers found this article helpful. 5 votes - 80% Click a star to add your vote

Quizzes & Games

Am I a Good Kisser QuizAm I a Good Kisser QuizTake QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizAm I Good at Flirting QuizTake QuizHow Awkward Am I QuizHow Awkward Am I QuizTake QuizGuess the Song QuizGuess the Song QuizTake QuizGuess the Lyrics From First Letters QuizGuess the Lyrics From First Letters QuizTake QuizWhich Male Body Type Do I Have QuizWhich Male Body Type Do I Have QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

Belly DanceHow toBelly DanceBellydance Like ShakiraHow toBellydance Like ShakiraShake Your BootyA Beginner's Guide to Shaking Your BootyDance SexilyHow toDance Sexily

Featured Articles

What 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanWhat 16 of the Most Common Hugs MeanJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends BetterJuicy, Deep, & Hot-Seat Questions to Get to Know Your Friends Better40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & More40+ Talking Games to Play with Friends, Partners & MoreMake FriendsHow toMake Friends

Trending Articles

What JJK Character Am I QuizWhat JJK Character Am I QuizWhat Emojis Mean Sex?What Emojis Mean Sex?What Pokémon Am I QuizWhat Pokémon Am I QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizDo I Have Brainrot QuizSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouSigns a Woman is Sexually Attracted to YouDo You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These Hygiene Hot Takes?

Featured Articles

The Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupThe Different Types of People You Can Find in a Friend GroupAn Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)An Introduction to Kibbe Body Types (with Styling Tips!)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?From Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male PersonalitiesFrom Alpha to Omega: A Guide to the 7 Male Personalities

Featured Articles

7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in Minutes7 Easy Card Magic Tricks You Can Master in Minutes Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHow to Perform Magic: 8 Tricks for BeginnersHypnotize SomeoneHow toHypnotize SomeoneThe Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try?The Easiest Guinness World Records to Break: Which Will You Try? Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesHow to Solve a Rubik's Cube in 20 MovesWhistle with Two FingersHow toWhistle with Two Fingers

Watch Articles

Grow Out Your BangsHow toGrow Out Your BangsDress PunkHow toDress PunkEnd a Long Distance RelationshipHow toEnd a Long Distance RelationshipDo E Girl EyelinerHow toDo E Girl EyelinerRespond to the Fire EmojiHow toRespond to the Fire Emoji Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look SmallHow to Stop Your Glasses from Making Your Eyes Look Small

Trending Articles

Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Do You Agree with These "Hear Me Out" Character Hot Takes?Introvert or Extrovert QuizIntrovert or Extrovert QuizWhat Color Am I QuizWhat Color Am I Quiz24 Different Types of Bras Explained24 Different Types of Bras ExplainedWhat Is My Animagus Form?What Is My Animagus Form?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?Can Your Finger Length Tell Your Personality?

Quizzes & Games

What Is My Kibbe Body Type QuizWhat Is My Kibbe Body Type QuizTake QuizAm I Cool QuizAm I Cool QuizTake QuizWhat's My Body Type QuizWhat's My Body Type QuizTake QuizHow Tall Will I Be QuizHow Tall Will I Be QuizTake QuizWhat's My Fight Style QuizWhat's My Fight Style QuizTake QuizWhich Celebrity Would You Marry QuizWhich Celebrity Would You Marry QuizTake Quiz wikiHow
  • Categories
  • Arts and Entertainment
  • Performing Arts
  • Dancing
  • Raunchy Dancing
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
  • Home
  • About wikiHow
  • Experts
  • Jobs
  • Contact Us
  • Site Map
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Do Not Sell or Share My Info
  • Not Selling Info
  • Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --505

Tag » How To Shake Your Hips