Part of the fun, adventure, and joy of traveling is learning about cultural activities in different countries. Many activities cross over from one country to another. When that happens, they often morph into a new version or even a wholly different activity resembling the original activity in name only.
Let me give you an example.
When you think of line dancing I’d bet you associate it with the US and perhaps cowboys. Line dancing may be associated with the US, but it’s a popular hobby and competition dance in Germany, too.
What Is Line Dancing?
Line dancing is what’s called a group dance. Dancers line up next to each other and perform different step sequences choreographed especially for the songs. Individual step sequences have names like Rock Step, Rocking Chair, and Jazz Box. So for instance, when dancers hear “Rock Step,” they know just how to move.
The Origins of Line Dancing
As with many things in life, people debate the origins of line dancing. Some say it originated in America, others say England. The exact origins can’t be traced, but the dance seems to have originated from European folk dances.
US soldiers brought the dance style to Germany, according to Jürgen Buchholz of the Federal Association for Country and Western Dance Germany.
The dance style was first described as line dance in the United States, and the first known line dance choreography was created in 1980 to the song “Tush Push.” Line dance had a breakthrough with the dance to Billy Ray Cyrus’ 1992 country hit “Achy Breaky Heart,” which made line dancing popular worldwide.
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Learning about the differences between German and US line dancing associations, how they travel to visit each others’ clubs and perform and compete is fascinating.
Yes, there are even Line Dancing Tours.
For example, after a line dancing competition in Arizona the groups will travel through the southwest and explore the area. Line dance enthusiasts from Germany, Austria and Switzerland often join the Germans when they dance and tour the US.
Final Thoughts
As a fitness professional I often recommend dancing as a way to get moving and stay active and healthy. Dancing is a great activity. And dancing in groups makes it even more fun!
And who doesn’t love a fun dance party 🙂 I always enjoy hearing about matching travels with hobbies and this line dancing article caught my attention.
Forward this article to anyone you know who line dances. If you line dance and use it as a basis for your travels, please share about your experiences in the comments below.
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