Dance Tutorial
How to Do the Macarena (Step-by-Step)
Learn the classic 16-count sequence: hands, shoulders, head, hips then a hip shimmy and a quarter-turn left. Repeat on the beat.
The 16-Count Sequence
One move per beat. Shimmy on counts 13–16, then on the last beat make a quarter-turn to your left and restart at count 1.
- 1
Right arm out, palm down
Extend your right arm straight in front of you with palm facing the floor.
- 2
Left arm out, palm down
Extend your left arm next to the right, palm down.
- 3
Right palm up
Flip your right hand so the palm faces up.
- 4
Left palm up
Flip your left hand so both palms face up.
- 5
Right hand to left shoulder
Place your right hand on your left shoulder (right arm crosses chest).
- 6
Left hand to right shoulder
Place your left hand on your right shoulder (arms crossed).
- 7
Right hand behind head
Move right hand behind your head (tap the back of your head).
- 8
Left hand behind head
Move left hand behind your head; elbows point outward.
- 9
Right hand to left hip
Place right hand on your left hip (front of hip).
- 10
Left hand to right hip
Place left hand on your right hip (front of hip).
- 11
Right hand to right back hip
Move right hand to the back/right hip (glute/top of pocket).
- 12
Left hand to left back hip
Move left hand to the back/left hip.
- 13
Hip wiggle – 4 counts
Keep hands on hips and shimmy your hips for four counts.
Common Mistakes
- Rushing the hand sequence keep it one move per count.
- Elbows flaring too wide stay compact for smooth transitions.
- Forgetting the quarter turn rotate left after the shimmy.
60-Second Practice
- Clap on the beat for 8 counts.
- Walk through counts 1–12 slowly.
- Add the hip shimmy (13) and a clean quarter-turn left.
- Repeat twice with music at a comfortable tempo.