How to moonwalk?

A step by step 'moonwalk' tutorial, of the dance made famous by Michael Jackson.

Do you want to dance like Michael Jackson?

Do you ever wish you had some killer moves on the dance floor? Do you wish you could impress the crowds and dance like Michael Jackson? Well, now is your time to learn to moonwalk. What you need is some dance instructions, a mirror and lots of practice.The MJ moonwalk is also known as a backslide and is a dance technique that creates the illusion of the dancer being pulled backwards while attempting to walk forward. The dance move was made famous by Michael Jackson when he presented it to the world in 1983 whilst performing his hit song ‘Billie Jean’. Its popularity has not faded and moon-walking is now one of the best-known dance techniques in the world.

How to 'moonwalk'?

Stand with both feet close to each other, left foot slightly ahead of the right one (toes of right should be in line with half the left foot.) Then raise the heel of the right foot so that you are standing on the front of the right foot, as if you are taking a step. The left foot must stay where it is and the right foot must be on tiptoe. As you lower the heel of the right foot, lean all your weight on the right foot, and drag back the left foot to so that its toes are in line with the heel of the right foot. The left foot's heel must be slightly off the ground at this stage. As you drag back, do not push down on the left foot at all or it will not glide. Make sure as you lower the heel of the right foot (slowly) the left moves at an equal speed. This will need lots of practice to master the right speed. These steps are repeated over and over. Deviations of this move allow the moon-walker to also appear to glide forwards, sideways, and even in a circle.

Practice makes perfect

As with any dance move it takes practice, practice, and practice. Michael Jackson is known to have a lot of natural talent as a dancer. However, he also had the total dedication to learn dance moves.
Where is the best place to practice?
Obviously on a flat level- ideally a polished floor which doesn’t grip your shoes. The best shoes to moonwalk in need to be light and slippy. Even socks are ideal. If you can get a mirror so you can study the movements of your feet, that would help. Once you have mastered the moves you too will be dancing like Michael Jackson.