---
title: How to Dance The Hustle
description: Learn the basic steps and timing of one of America's favorite and historic party dances!
image: https://blog.dancevision.com/hubfs/travolta.jpg
---
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# How to Dance The Hustle
December 18, 2022 | [Alise Borne](https://blog.dancevision.com/author/alise-borne)
[# Beginner Guides](https://blog.dancevision.com/tag/beginner-guides)
A popular and energetic disco-style dance that originated in the United States in the 1970s, the Hustle has since become a staple in the international dance scene. It is characterized by its fast footwork and energetic movements, as well as its use of quick turns and spins. Dancers love the hustle for its flexibility - it is both a popular [competitive](https://blog.dancevision.com/a-complete-guide-to-competitive-ballroom-dance) and social dance style! Read on for a breakdown of the basic steps and timing for dancing hustle!
## Breakdown of Basic Steps
1. Start in a closed dance position with the leader facing the line of dance and the follower facing the leader, with their respective feet touching.
2. The leader takes a step forward on their left foot, then a step to the side on their right foot. The follower steps backwards on their right foot, then to the side on their left foot.
3. The leader and follower both take a step forward on their left foot, then a step to the side on their right foot.
4. The leader and follower both take a step backwards on their right foot, then a step to the side on their left foot.
5. Repeat these steps, continuing to move around the dance floor in a counterclockwise direction.
## 
## Timing
1. Hustle is danced to music with a fast, energetic tempo, typically around 120-150 beats per minute.
2. The basic steps of hustle are danced on the first and third beats of the music, with a pause on the second and fourth beats.
3. The man's steps should be taken on the first beat, and the woman's steps should be taken on the third beat.
4. The pause on the second and fourth beats allows the dancers to hold their positions and add expression to the dance.
In addition to the basic steps and timing, hustle also involves the use of quick turns and spins to add energy and flair to the dance. The leader and follower can turn individually or together, using the momentum of their turns to add excitement to the dance.
Remember, hustle is a dance that is all about energy and fun. As you practice these basic steps and timing, try to let the music guide your movements and let your body express the high-energy mood of the dance. With practice and patience, you'll be well on your way to becoming a confident and skilled hustle dancer.
## **Try it from Home**
Discover our [4 tips on how to learn to dance from home](https://blog.dancevision.com/4-tips-on-how-to-learn-to-dance-from-home) with Dance Vision.
## **Dance to the Music**
We love Hustle so much, we made a whole playlist of Hustle music! Check out our curated Spotify playlists created with dancers like you in mind. Take our playlist with you to the studio or use it to practice from home.
Who knows, you might find your [new favorite song ](https://blog.dancevision.com/ballroom-dance-music)to jam to and get inspired by!
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