These are the concepts I use for myself in practices and in semi to pro level workshops.
Learning Collegiate Shag Basics
Shag is One Pulse
The base unit of shag as a single pulse. Focus on the leg with weight on it, not the kicking leg!
i.e.
- One pulse = a quick
- Two pulses = a slow
- Three pulses = part of fancy rhythms
- Four pulses = i.e. skates, collegiate kicks, kick throughs
- Six pulses = i.e. hesitation kicks
- Eight pulses = i.e. skates
You can mix and match the pulses with weight changes to create Shag Rhythms.
- Try leading / following the standard Shag Rhythms with your feet together as if just doing weight changes.
In shag, you’ll have the most success if you focus on the leg where your weight is. The free leg is the show, everyone looks at it, but it isn’t the important one. Focus on the leg with your weight on it.
Shag Rhythms and Basics
And there are many Styles of the Shag Basic. Because it is physically easy, very efficient, and similar to Balboa, the one that will give you the most gains right away is the shag basic - shuffle basic.
For reps, I usually use shag rhythm - single or shag rhythm - triple because they’re bilateral. This helps to avoid building too much asymmetry. Plus some really cool moves use these rhythms.
- Do the single and triple rhythm basic side by side with the shuffle basic.
However, unless you’re dancing with other high level dancers, socially the shag rhythm - double is used.
- Lead / follow different positions, turns, and passes with the double rhythm and a shuffle basic.
Mix in the Step Kick + Scoot
The second basic to integrate is the shag basic - step kick. This works well in all dance positions @Ryan Martin has listed in the Shag Lexicon except for closed. It kinda works in closed. I suggest using different basic for closed.
- Try solo just the step kicks (the slows) of the shag basic - step kick
The most important part of this shag is the scoot. This scoot will make you efficient and save you from exhaustion. Introduce yourself to moving around with it.
- Try the The Six Directions of Movement and focus on the scoot while doing the step kick.
- Try moving far and fast too!
Transition The Basic
For closed, I will often use the shag basic - LA double kick as my default. This is often a regional thing. For example, loc_Los Angeles will use the double kick more and loc_Austin will use the shag basic - arthur murray basic.
- Practice transition from open to closed and changing basics. Use the shag basic - shuffle basic or shag basic - arthur murray basic in closed and then the shag basic - step kick in open.
- Lead / follow different positions, turns, and passes and include transition into from open to closed.
Pulse and Center of Gravity
Beginners will often pulse high and stay there. Experienced shag dancers will use the whole spectrum, but defaulting to a lower center of gravity. Socially, the important thing is to match with your partner. It will allow you to sync well and avoid exhaustion.
- Try high, medium, and low center of gravity while doing basic movements.
Rhythm work is being able to comfortably lead / follow however many pulses on each foot. Use a relaxed tone and then when something changes, tone up, use more compression, try a lilt, or a hitch (or other level changes) to indicate a change. Once a rhythm is established, you can usually relax again.
- Lead and follow classic and modern Shag Rhythms with feet together, just doing weight changes and applying the rhythms.
- Lead and follow a variety of rhythms in closed while using the shag basic - shuffle basic.
More Steps
Let’s quickly skim some common and iconic shag motions to do before we’re done:
- collegiate kicks
- bunny hops
- skates
- camel hops
Choose Your Own Adventure
Okay! That’s enough for a quick start. As you progress, keep in mind there’s shag specific lead/follow technique in many of the patterns that you’ll learn a long the way.
A few suggestions for your growth.
For future partnered practices:
- Start with rhythm work.
- Dance a lot.
- Practice what you’re interested in. How to Find a Partner and Practice Dance
- Shag Lexicon
For solo practices:
- Focus on the scoot.
- Practice turns.
- Consider: LA Style Shag Warmup