heeldancing

Heeldancing is the practice of performing dance routines while wearing high-heeled footwear. It appears across multiple dance genres, including contemporary, ballroom-adjacent styles, burlesque, and club or performance settings, where heels contribute to the aesthetic and technique.

Technique emphasizes upright posture, a strong core, controlled footwork, and precise weight transfer between the ball and the heel of the foot. Dancers choose footwear with suitable heel height and support and often progress gradually. Training highlights ankle stability, calf strength, balance, alignment, and safe transitions. Movements are adapted for heel work, including turns, slides, and floor combinations, with attention to surface grip and line.

Safety and training considerations address the risk of ankle sprains, Achilles tendon strain, and metatarsal stress. Practitioners stress warm-ups, gradual progression, proper shoe fit, cushioning, and appropriate flooring. Beginners may start on lower heels or shoes with a broader base before moving to higher heels and should avoid slick or uneven surfaces until proficiency is established.

Cultural context and reception: heels are used in many urban and performance settings to convey style, musicality, and expression. Dedicated heels classes exist in dance studios, and performance troupes may feature routine work in heels. The practice is often integrated with other performance disciplines and can be a component of burlesque, drag, or theatrical shows.

Related topics include high-heeled dance, burlesque, ballroom dance, pole dancing, and drag performance.