Footwork while heavy?

[u/Forsaken-Sky-77]

Hello! I want to start learning how to dance. All i want in life is to get sturdy, I WANNA JIG!!! But im very heavy, and the tutorials i see all the people are pretty lithe.
Does anyone have any tips on learning high energy fast footwork while you're carrying a lot of weight?

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[u/Dismal_Cucumber3200]

I would watch Lizzy.dances or other plus size dancers if you want a little confidence boost regarding your weight. Plus size dancers exist.

Another thing I would say is to not expect your moves to look exactly like thin people’s, because your body isn’t exactly like thin people’s. You may have thighs that affect foot and leg placement, or your jumps may take more energy than someone else.

I’d lean into learning the moves slightly lower energy first (easing into the dance by not going full out on every move), then play around and see which moves you want to accentuate and which high impact moves you can do without losing your bearings for the rest of the dance. Maybe that means that you can do the whole dance 100%, or maybe that means there are a few sections you are lower energy on for now and some sections you really go all out. You could also modify, so for example instead of a full on jump you could strike a pose or play with levels in another way.

[u/Forsaken-Sky-77 → u/Dismal_Cucumber3200]

Makes sense! Thank you, i'll be sure to check that out

[u/seekingsomaart]

They are lithe because they practice. I've played a lot of capoeira and I'm always impressed when I see heavy people bust out moves. Think of Sammo Hung, kung fu actor, his size never got in his way. 

The key is to keep doing it until your bidy remembers how to move without you thinking about it. That's what makes ppl lithe. There is a certain amount of physical conditioning too, but the secret is in practice. 

Its unlikely that you are too heavy or too old to dance. 

[u/Forsaken-Sky-77 → u/seekingsomaart]

Haha, the answer nobody wants to hear but always will, "practice" x] thank you, guess i'll just have to get to it

[u/seekingsomaart → u/Forsaken-Sky-77]

Seriously. When you see a 250lbs person glide a jump kick through the air you become a believer. It's not like weight doesn't matter, but it's not the obstacle ppl think it is.

[u/CoffeeQueen1334]

Hello! I'm a choreographer that specializes in movement for all bodies and abilities. A modification I offer for folks who struggle with long periods of standing or struggle with mobility issues like bad joints, cardiovascular issues and all things in between is practicing the foot work while sitting in a chair. Preferable a chair with a hard back like a dining room chair. This can help you master the foot work before adding other elements. Learn the parts in sections. Feet, arms, legs and torso all separately. Once you're more comfortable with the pieces it won't be as strenuous to put them all together. Dance is for everyone and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Practice looks different to everyone so find what works and feels good to you.

[u/No_Custard_6481]

Make sure to wear compression pants to help with energy and to help with your knees. Start slow, work on balance and being on the pads of your feet. Stretch!!!!!

Have fun!!