How to Moonwalk Dance

In this guide, we’re going to show you how to perform three variations of the moonwalk dance with free video lessons. This is one of Michael Jackson’s most notorious moves, and it’s just as popular as ever. Here’s how to moonwalk dance in just a few easy steps!

How to Do the Basic Moonwalk

We’ll start with how to do the basic moonwalk (a.k.a. the backwards Moonwalk). The key to achieving the desired “moonwalk” effect here is properly shifting your weight from one leg to another.

The Basics

Step 1: Press through your right foot, all the way to your heel.
Step 2: Meanwhile, your left foot is going to slide back. Do not put your weight on the left foot, but on the right foot instead.
Step 3: Now, you’ll shift your weight to the left. Your left heel will come up and push through, as will your left leg.
Step 4: At the same time, you’ll be moving your right foot into the next position, and shift your weight again.
Step 5: Repeat steps 1-4.

This can be tricky, but with some practice, you’ll get the hang of it. Watch Howcast’s tutorial above to get a better visual of what this should look like. Then try it out for yourself!

How to Do the Forward Moonwalk

The forward moonwalk is almost identical to the backward moonwalk we described above. However, this time around, you won’t be moving backward. Instead, you’ll actually be staying in one place while performing the same movements.

The Basics

Step 1: Imagine you’re starting with your left foot. Kick your left, push through to the heel, and skate your right foot back.
Step 2: Now kick your right foot, putting your weight back onto the right. Push through the heel, and now skate your left foot back.
Repeat.

An important thing to remember here is the need for preparation. Right after the “kick” of either leg, you have to kind of prepare for the next step, which is the push. This allows you to keep the weight in one place. Watch the Howcast tutorial video above to see how this really works!

How to Do the Sideways Moonwalk

Now that you’ve gotten the hang of the backwards and forwards Moonwalk dance, it’s time to learn how to do the sideways Moonwalk (also called the Side Glide). This works the exact same way as the other two, but you’ll be pointing your heels forward.

The Basics

Starting Position: You’ll start by having your heel turned on the inside. This will allow you to travel to the side instead of backward or forward.

Step 1: Press through your left foot, and travel to the right.
Step 2: While your right foot is sliding, shift your weight and lift up your right heel.
Step 3: While your left foot comes in, turn it out again and push. At the same time, left your right heel.
Step 4: Repeat steps 1-3.

Remember:

Turn your left heel out -> Push through the ball to the heel while the right comes in.
Lift your right heel up -> Push through the ball to the heel while the left comes in

Yes, this is another tricky one. But keep practicing, and watch our tutorial video to see how it’s done!

Start Moonwalking Today!

We know, we know. Moonwalking looks so cool, but it’s impossible to pull off unless you’re Michael Jackson, right? Nope! It may be a frustrating move to practice, but know that your persistence and dedication will pay off in the long run. You’ve got this!

For more free dance video lessons, explore our main How to Dance page here.