The macarena is a Spanish dance that is danced to the rhythm of the song “Macarena” by Los del Río. To do the macarena, you have to learn the sequence of basic steps. When you know it, you can focus on loosening your body and giving the dance more grace. Make sure you have something to play the music with so you can dance to the song.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Learn the Basic Steps
Step 1. Extend one arm in front of you and then the other
First extend your right arm and then your left. The arms must be parallel to the ground. Your palms should be facing down.
Step 2. Flip your palms up, one after the other
Turn the right palm first and then the left palm. Turn your forearms out to flip your palms.
Step 3. Put your right hand on your left shoulder
Keep your elbow on the right side of your body. The forearm should cross your chest.
Step 4. Put your left hand on your right shoulder
Cross your left arm over your right arm across your chest. Both of your palms should be on your shoulders. Your forearms should be crossed in an "X" shape over your chest.
Step 5. Put your hands on the back of your neck one by one
First slide your right arm under your left arm across your chest. Bring your right hand up to the nape of the neck. Then, bring your left hand towards the back of your neck as well.
It's okay if your left hand ends up on top of your right hand
Step 6. Lower your hands to your hips one by one
Lower your right hand first and place it on your left hip. Then, lower your left hand and put it on your right hip.
Step 7. Move your hands to the opposite hip, one after the other
Place your right hand (currently on your left hip) on your right hip. Next, place your left hand (currently on your right hip) on your left hip.
Step 8. Make three circles with your hips
Keep your hands on your hips while doing the circles. The feet must be flat on the ground.
Step 9. Jump up and turn your body 90 degrees to the left
When you hit the ground, your body should be in another direction. Every time you finish the basic step sequence, jump up and turn 90 degrees to the left.
Step 10. Clap your hands and repeat the sequence
Do the same steps, but this time in another direction. When you finish the sequence of steps again, jump up and turn 90 degrees to the left.
Part 2 of 2: Put it all together
Step 1. Play the song “Macarena”
The macarena is always danced to the sound of the “Macarena”. The original song is by Los del Río, although you can dance to any version.
Step 2. Begin by moving your hips from side to side
Let your shoulders roll up and down as you do this. The goal is to let go of the body. This is not part of the dance itself, but this way you won't look stiff while doing the steps.
The song has a short introduction before the singing voice begins. Use that time to start letting go of your body to dance
Step 3. Start dancing when you hear them start singing
Remember that you have to start by extending the right arm and then the left with the palms facing down. Each step should be one second.
Step 4. Remember to turn 90 degrees after each sequence of steps
You should do the jump after rotating your hips. After turning, clap your hands and repeat the sequence of steps.
Step 5. Keep dancing until the song is over
Do the whole sequence of steps, jump, turn and repeat! If you get tired before the song ends, stop and get off the dance floor.