If you've ever wanted to dive into the world of hip-hop dance but didn't know where to start, this is your golden ticket. Dancer and choreographer Arianna Davis, alongside class members Lilian Gonzalez and Rehima Jordan, takes you on a time-traveling journey through the decades—from the 2000s all the way back to the 1960s. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a total newbie, Davis breaks down iconic moves like the Soulja Boy, the Dougie, the running man, and even the legendary Aunt Viv with easy-to-follow precision. It's not just a workout; it's a celebration of 50 years of hip-hop culture, packed into one high-energy routine. So press play, lace up your sneakers, and get ready to move.
The Soulja Boy: Bringing 2007 Back to Life
Remember when "Crank That (Soulja Boy)" took over every party, wedding, and school dance in the late 2000s? Davis kicks things off with this iconic move, breaking it down step by step. The key here is the swagger—loose arms, a slight bounce, and that signature footwork. If you’ve ever felt awkward trying this at a club, don’t sweat it. Davis emphasizes that the Soulja Boy is all about having fun, not perfection. She even throws in a pro tip: "Lean into the rhythm, not the rigidity." By the time you’ve nailed the superman motion and the heel-toe shuffle, you’ll be ready to drop it low like it’s 2007 all over again.
The Dougie: West Coast Cool
Straight out of California’s hip-hop scene, the Dougie is smooth, effortless, and impossible not to love. Davis explains that this move is all about flow—think of your body like a wave, rolling from your shoulders down to your knees. Gonzalez and Jordan demonstrate how to sync the arm swings with the body roll, making it look like second nature. Davis jokes, "If you feel like you’re swaying more than dancing, you’re doing it right." The Dougie isn’t just a dance move; it’s a vibe. And once you’ve got it down, you’ll be hitting every family reunion with newfound confidence.
The Running Man: A '90s Staple
Before TikTok challenges, there was the running man—a move so simple yet so iconic that it defined an era. Davis breaks it into two parts: the jog (lifting those knees) and the glide (sliding back with attitude). Jordan admits, "I used to think this was just hopping in place until Arianna showed me the technique." The secret? Keep your upper body relaxed while your legs do the work. Davis adds, "It’s called the running man, not the sprinting man—pace yourself!" Whether you’re reliving your high school days or discovering it for the first time, this move is a cardio blast disguised as nostalgia.
The Aunt Viv: Fresh Prince Flair
Named after Janet Hubert’s iconic character from The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, this move is equal parts sass and sophistication. Davis describes it as a "shoulder pop with drama," and Gonzalez nails the attitude, proving you don’t need a jazz background to pull it off. The Aunt Viv is all about sharp, controlled movements—think of it as hip-hop’s answer to a runway walk. Davis laughs, "If you’ve ever side-eyed someone with style, you’re halfway there." It’s a subtle but powerful addition to your dance arsenal, perfect for when you want to command the room without breaking a sweat.
By the end of the routine, you’ll have traveled through five decades of hip-hop history—and maybe even worked up a sweat. Davis wraps things up with a reminder: "These moves weren’t born in studios; they came from block parties, living rooms, and pure creativity. So don’t overthink it—just feel the music." Whether you’re practicing solo or with friends, this class is a masterclass in rhythm, culture, and fun. And hey, if you’re not ready to hit the club just yet, at least you’ll crush the next wedding dance floor. Catch new episodes of Dance FitSugar every Wednesday on POPSUGAR Fitness’ YouTube channel—your next dance breakthrough is just a click away.
