Introduction
Dance trends come and go, but some movements manage to capture the world’s attention and refuse to let go. One of the most talked-about dance styles in recent decades involves rhythmic hip movements that have taken over music videos, social media, and dance floors globally. When people think of high-energy, lower-body focused dance moves, the phrase big ass twerk often comes to mind as a descriptor of the powerful, rhythmic shaking that defines the style.
It isn’t just a random movement; it has roots in cultural traditions and has evolved into a mainstream fitness and entertainment phenomenon. Whether you see it on TikTok or in a workout class, this dance form requires skill, muscle control, and rhythm. This article will dive deep into the history, the mechanics, the fitness benefits, and the cultural significance of this bold dance move.
Key Takeaways:
- Cultural Roots: Twerking has deep origins in West African dance traditions and the New Orleans bounce scene.
- Fitness Benefits: It is a high-intensity workout that engages the core, glutes, and legs.
- Mainstream Explosion: Pop culture and social media have propelled the big ass twerk phenomenon into global recognition.
- Technique Matters: Proper form is essential to prevent injury and perform the move correctly.
What is Twerking and Where Did It Come From?
When we look at the history of dance, it is fascinating to see how local traditions become global sensations. The movement that many associate with a big ass twerk video today actually has a rich lineage. It is widely accepted that the roots of twerking can be traced back to West African dance styles, specifically the Mapouka dance from the Côte d’Ivoire. These traditional dances often involved isolation of the hips and buttocks, celebrating the body and rhythmic connection to drumming.
In the United States, the modern iteration of twerking found its home in the New Orleans “Bounce” music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s. DJ Jubilee is often credited with popularizing the term “twerk” in a 1993 song. In this context, the dance was a staple of block parties and local clubs, a high-energy expression of the unique beat structure of Bounce music. It wasn’t just about shaking; it was about matching the frantic, upbeat tempo of the music with equally rapid body movements.
Over time, the style migrated from New Orleans to Atlanta and other southern hip-hop hubs. As it traveled, the style evolved. By the time the early 2000s arrived, the big ass twerk aesthetic became a staple in hip-hop music videos. Artists began featuring dancers who specialized in this isolation technique, bringing what was once a regional specialty to a national audience. Today, it is recognized globally, transcending its origins to become a symbol of modern pop culture.
The Connection to West African Roots
It is crucial to respect the origins of the dance. While modern media often sensationalizes the big ass twerk, its ancestors in West African culture were often ceremonial or celebratory. Dances like the Mapouka were communal activities. Understanding this helps separate the dance from purely scandalous interpretations and frames it as a legitimate form of cultural expression that celebrates the human form.
The New Orleans Bounce Scene
Bounce music is characterized by heavy brass, call-and-response vocals, and the “Triggerman” beat. This specific rhythmic structure is perfect for the repetitive, high-energy motion of twerking. In New Orleans, this wasn’t a trend; it was a lifestyle. Dancers would compete to see who could isolate their movements the best, often leading to the impressive displays of athleticism we see associated with the big ass twerk today.
The Anatomy of the Move: How It Works
Many people assume that twerking is easy, but achieving that perfect big ass twerk motion requires significant physical coordination. It is fundamentally about isolating the pelvis and the gluteal muscles while keeping the upper body relatively still or moving in a counter-rhythm. It is not just “shaking”; it is controlled muscle contraction and release.
To perform the move correctly, a dancer usually adopts a squat position. This lowers the center of gravity and frees up the hips. The primary motion involves tilting the pelvis forward and backward (anterior and posterior pelvic tilt). This rocking motion creates the visual effect of the buttocks moving up and down or shaking. The “jiggle” factor, often emphasized in big ass twerk clips, comes from the relaxation of the glute muscles at the moment of impact or movement.
Flexibility in the lower back is also essential. A stiff lower back makes the fluid motion impossible. Furthermore, core strength is non-negotiable. To sustain the squat position and control the rapid hip movements, the abdominal muscles must be engaged constantly. This is why professional dancers who specialize in this style often have incredibly strong cores and legs.
Muscle Groups Involved
- Gluteus Maximus: The main muscle group responsible for the visual impact.
- Hamstrings: Help control the squat and hip hinge.
- Quadriceps: Support the squat position.
- Erector Spinae: Lower back muscles that facilitate the pelvic tilt.
- Core (Abs/Obliques): Stabilize the upper body and control the pelvic motion.
The Importance of the Squat
You cannot effectively twerk with locked knees. The squat is the foundation. The deeper the squat, the more range of motion the hips have. This is why you often see the most impressive big ass twerk moves performed in a deep squat or even a sumo squat position. It allows the glutes to be fully disengaged from the legs, allowing for that signature shake.
Twerking as a Fitness Trend
In the last decade, the big ass twerk has moved from the dance floor to the gym floor. Fitness instructors realized that the high-energy, muscle-isolating movements of twerking are incredible for burning calories and toning muscles. “Twerkout” classes have popped up in gyms across the world, offering a fun alternative to traditional aerobics or spin classes.
A typical twerk fitness class involves a lot of squatting, lunging, and holding isometric poses while isolating the hips. This creates a high-intensity interval training (HIIT) effect. You are constantly engaging the largest muscle groups in your body (the legs and glutes), which drives up the heart rate and burns a significant amount of energy.
Beyond just burning calories, these classes focus on body positivity. Participants are encouraged to love their bodies and appreciate what their muscles can do. The phrase big ass twerk in a fitness context becomes a celebration of curves and strength rather than just a visual for others. It empowers people to feel comfortable in their skin while getting a serious workout.
Calorie Burning Potential
Depending on the intensity, a one-hour twerk fitness class can burn anywhere from 300 to 600 calories. This is comparable to jogging or swimming. The constant movement keeps the metabolic rate high. Because it involves so much squatting, it also builds lean muscle mass, which helps burn more calories at rest.
Comparison of Dance Workouts
|
Workout Type |
Primary Focus |
Avg. Calories Burned (1 hr) |
Muscle Groups |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Twerkout |
Glutes, Hips, Rhythm |
400 – 600 |
Glutes, Quads, Core |
|
Zumba |
Cardio, Latin Steps |
300 – 500 |
Full Body |
|
Ballet Fit |
Posture, Strength |
250 – 400 |
Calves, Core, Arms |
|
Hip Hop |
Choreography, Cardio |
350 – 550 |
Legs, Core |
The Role of Social Media in Popularizing the Dance
If there is one thing that launched the big ass twerk into the stratosphere, it is social media. Platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and more recently, TikTok, thrive on short, visually engaging video content. Twerking fits this format perfectly. It is high energy, visually striking, and set to catchy music.
Viral challenges often center around specific songs that have a beat drop perfect for a big ass twerk moment. When a celebrity or influencer posts a video participating in one of these challenges, millions of followers attempt to replicate it. This creates a cycle of virality that keeps the dance style relevant. The “#TwerkChallenge” hashtags have billions of views collectively.
This visibility has democratized the dance. You don’t need to be a backup dancer for a rap star to show off your skills. Anyone with a smartphone can record a big ass twerk video in their living room and potentially go viral. This has led to a global community of dancers who share tips, choreography, and encouragement online.
TikTok and the Modern Era
TikTok has been a game-changer. The platform’s editing tools allow users to sync their movements perfectly to the beat, enhancing the visual effect of the big ass twerk. Trends move fast on TikTok, but twerking remains a constant because it adapts to almost any high-tempo genre of music, from hip-hop to reggaeton to electronic dance music.
The Double-Edged Sword of Virality
While social media has made the dance popular, it also opens it up to criticism and appropriation. There is often debate about who gets credit for creating specific moves. It is important to remember the cultural originators when consuming big ass twerk content online. Supporting the creators who invent the dances is a vital part of the social media ecosystem.
Cultural Controversies and Misconceptions
Despite its popularity, the big ass twerk remains a subject of controversy. Critics often label it as vulgar or inappropriate, failing to see the skill and cultural history behind it. This criticism often disproportionately targets women of color, who are the originators of the style. When pop stars like Miley Cyrus adopted the move in 2013, it sparked a massive debate about cultural appropriation.
The term big ass twerk itself can sometimes be used in a derogatory way, reducing the dancer to just a body part. However, many dancers reclaim this language as a form of empowerment. They argue that they have the agency to move their bodies however they choose, and that celebrating their physique through dance is a feminist act.
It is a complex issue with valid points on all sides. However, dismissing the dance entirely as “trashy” ignores its validity as a form of expression in the dancehall and bounce cultures. Like the Hula or Belly Dancing, it involves hip isolation that can be viewed as sensual, but that sensuality is not inherently negative.
Appropriation vs. Appreciation
The line between enjoying a culture and stealing from it can be thin. Appreciation involves understanding the history and giving credit. Appropriation involves taking the “cool” parts—like the big ass twerk move—without respecting the people who created it. The 2013 VMA performance is often cited as a textbook example of appropriation because the dance was treated as a costume or a prop rather than a respected art form.
The Policing of Women’s Bodies
Much of the backlash against the big ass twerk stems from societal discomfort with women expressing sexuality or confidence. When men perform hip-thrusting moves in rock or hip-hop, it is often seen as powerful. When women do it, it is often policed. Understanding this double standard is key to understanding the cultural conversation surrounding twerking.
How to Learn the Basics Safely
If you are interested in trying to master the big ass twerk for fitness or fun, it is important to start slow. Jumping into rapid movements without warming up is a recipe for a pulled muscle.
Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners:
- Warm Up: Spend 5-10 minutes stretching your hamstrings, quads, and lower back.
- The Stance: Stand with feet wider than shoulder-width apart. Turn your toes out slightly.
- The Squat: Lower your hips into a squat. Keep your knees behind your toes to protect your joints.
- Hand Placement: You can place your hands on your knees for support, or on your hips.
- Pelvic Tilt: Practice arching your back (sticking your butt out) and then tucking your pelvis under (rounding your lower back). This rocking motion is the engine of the big ass twerk.
- Speed it Up: Once you have the motion down, try to increase the speed to match the beat of the music.
- Relax: The jiggle only happens if your glutes are relaxed. If you are too tense, you will just look stiff.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Rounding the upper back: Keep your chest up and shoulders back.
- Knees caving in: Push your knees out to align with your toes.
- Moving the whole body: Isolate the hips. Your head and shoulders should move as little as possible.
- Holding your breath: Breathe rhythmically to maintain stamina.
The Best Music for Twerking
You cannot perform a proper big ass twerk without the right soundtrack. The music dictates the speed and the vibe of the dance. Historically, New Orleans Bounce is the gold standard. Artists like Big Freedia are icons in this space.
However, modern trap music and hip-hop also provide excellent beats. You are looking for a song with a heavy bass line and a tempo between 95 and 110 beats per minute (BPM). This tempo allows for the rapid double-time movement often seen in big ass twerk videos.
Top Genres for Twerking
- New Orleans Bounce: The original and arguably the best. High energy and repetitive beats.
- Trap: Heavy 808 bass lines make it easy to find the rhythm.
- Dancehall: Caribbean rhythms that encourage hip isolation (whining) which complements twerking.
- Reggaeton: Similar to Dancehall, with a driving beat that is perfect for hip movement.
Creating a Playlist
When building a playlist for a workout or practice session, start with slower songs to warm up. Slowly transition into faster Bounce tracks for the peak of your big ass twerk session, and then cool down with slower R&B tracks. This follows the natural curve of a physical workout.
Fashion and Twerking: What to Wear
The visual element of a big ass twerk is enhanced by what the dancer is wearing. Loose clothing can hide the movement, while overly restrictive clothing can make it difficult to move.
Most dancers prefer shorts that are loose enough to allow for movement but short enough to show the leg muscles working. Leggings are also popular, especially high-waisted ones that stay in place during deep squats. The fabric matters, too. Spandex or Lycra blends are ideal because they stretch and wick away sweat.
Footwear is Crucial
Do not attempt this in heels unless you are an advanced dancer. Sneakers with good grip and ankle support are the best choice. You need a stable base to perform the squat and the rapid hip movements safely. Running shoes or cross-trainers are standard for a big ass twerk fitness class.
The “Booty Shorts” Aesthetic
There is a specific style of shorts often called “booty shorts” or “hot pants” that are synonymous with this dance style. They allow for maximum freedom of movement and accentuate the glutes, making the big ass twerk visually distinct. This fashion choice is functional as well as aesthetic.
Twerking in Pop Culture: Movies and TV
The big ass twerk has made its way onto the big screen and into television shows, further cementing its place in the cultural zeitgeist. Shows like P-Valley, which focuses on the lives of dancers in a club in the Mississippi Delta, showcase the athleticism and drama behind the dance. It portrays the dance not just as background noise, but as a serious profession requiring immense skill.
Movies like Bring It On touched on cheerleading routines that incorporated hip-hop elements, which paved the way for more explicit twerking in later teen movies. Reality TV shows frequently feature dance challenges, and the big ass twerk is a staple in shows that focus on hip-hop culture, such as Love & Hip Hop.
This representation matters because it normalizes the dance. It moves it from the underground into the living rooms of average families. While it may still shock some, for the younger generation, seeing a big ass twerk on TV is as normal as seeing a waltz on Dancing with the Stars.
The Shift in Perception
Ten years ago, twerking on TV might have been censored or mocked. Today, it is often celebrated. We see it in commercials, in comedy sketches, and in serious dramas. This shift indicates that society is slowly accepting the big ass twerk as a valid part of the modern dance lexicon.
The Future of Twerking
Will the big ass twerk fade away like the Macarena or the Twist? It seems unlikely. Because it is so deeply rooted in the musical structure of hip-hop and Bounce—genres that are still dominating the charts—the dance will likely remain relevant.
Furthermore, its integration into the fitness world gives it staying power. As long as people want to tone their glutes and have fun doing cardio, the big ass twerk will have a place in the gym. We may see it evolve, perhaps blending with other dance styles or adapting to new genres of music, but the core movement of rhythmic hip isolation is timeless.
We can also expect to see more academic and cultural appreciation for the style. As dance historians document the evolution of hip-hop dance, the big ass twerk will be recorded as a significant movement that bridged African traditions with American pop culture.
Innovations in the Dance
Dancers are constantly innovating. We are seeing acrobatic elements being added, such as twerking while doing a headstand or the splits. These variations push the physical limits of the human body and ensure that the big ass twerk spectacle never gets boring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are some common questions people have about this dynamic dance style.
Q: Is twerking bad for your back?
A: If done incorrectly, yes. If you arch your back too aggressively without engaging your core, you can strain your lower back. However, with proper form and core engagement, the big ass twerk can actually strengthen the lower back muscles.
Q: Can anyone learn to twerk?
A: Absolutely. While having naturally loose hips helps, the movement is mechanical. With practice and stretching, anyone of any body type or gender can learn the basics of a big ass twerk.
Q: Do I need a large bottom to twerk?
A: No. The term big ass twerk refers to the style and the visual impact, but the mechanics of the pelvic tilt work regardless of body size. It is about the motion, not just the mass.
Q: Is it considered a sport?
A: While not an Olympic sport, it is a highly athletic endeavor. There are competitions worldwide where dancers are judged on technique, stamina, and creativity, much like gymnastics or figure skating.
Q: Why is it called “twerking”?
A: The origin of the word is debated. Some say it is a blend of “twist” and “jerk.” Others trace it to “work it.” Regardless, it became the standard term in the New Orleans bounce scene in the 90s.
Why Form is More Important than Speed
When beginners try to master the big ass twerk, they often try to go as fast as possible right away. This usually leads to looking like a vibrating blur rather than a dancer. The most impressive dancers understand that control is king.
A slow, controlled isolation is often more difficult—and more visually impressive—than a fast, messy shake. Being able to stop the motion on a dime, or hit specific beats with a single pop, demonstrates true mastery.
In the world of professional dance, this is called “musicality.” It means you aren’t just doing a move; you are embodying the music. A great big ass twerk performance hits the bass drum, the snare, and the hi-hats with different parts of the movement.
Drills for Control
- The Slow Roll: Rotate your hips in a slow circle, hitting every corner (front, left, back, right).
- The Isometric Hold: Hold a deep squat for 30 seconds to build the strength needed for sustained dancing.
- Single Pops: Practice doing just one sharp pelvic tilt and stopping completely. Repeat.
The Economic Impact of Twerk Culture
Believe it or not, the big ass twerk creates jobs. From professional dancers in music videos to fitness instructors to social media influencers, there is an economy built around this dance.
Brands often hire dancers to promote products, knowing that a video featuring a talented dancer will get high engagement. Apparel companies design lines specifically for this demographic. The big ass twerk phenomenon drives views, which drives ad revenue, which pays creators.
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Career Opportunities
- Choreographer: Designing routines for artists.
- Influencer: Creating content for brands.
- Instructor: Teaching classes online or in person.
- Backup Dancer: Touring with musical acts.
Key Takeaways
- Origins: The dance originates from West African traditions and evolved through the New Orleans Bounce scene.
- Technique: It requires a squat, pelvic tilt, and relaxed glutes—not just random shaking.
- Fitness: It is a legitimate workout that burns calories and builds lower body strength.
- Culture: While controversial, it is a significant part of modern pop culture and female empowerment.
- Accessibility: Anyone can learn the big ass twerk with patience and practice; body type is not a barrier.
Conclusion
The big ass twerk is more than just a fleeting internet meme or a scandalous dance move. It is a complex cultural artifact with deep roots, requiring genuine athletic skill and rhythm. It has traversed continents, evolving from traditional celebrations in West Africa to the block parties of New Orleans, and finally to the screens of smartphones worldwide.
Whether you view it as a fun way to get fit, a form of artistic expression, or a symbol of body positivity, there is no denying its impact. It challenges social norms, celebrates the human body, and brings people together through the universal language of dance. So, the next time you see a viral video or hear that bounce beat drop, you’ll understand the history and the mechanics that go into that big ass twerk. For further reading on the broader context of this dance style, you can visit this page on Twerking.
