Lindy hop is an energetic partner dance. It is full of rhythm, movement, freedom and versatility.

The Lindy hop is a dance that developed in the United States in the 1920s and 1930s, named after the pilot Charles Lindbergh. Lindy Hop can be danced to a wide variety of music and is popular enough that swing dances can be found all over the world – especially in summer.

What does Lindy Hop look like?

You’ve probably seen Lindy Hop, even if you don’t necessarily know what the dance is called. In many larger cities, for example, you can come across gatherings with people bouncing rhythmically to swing music or the latest hits.

This is what lindy hop looks like:

Why Lindy Hop?

If you’re looking for a new dance activity, follow your heart. All dance is good for the mind and body. You can also try out different genres, for example flamenco, tango and polka.

A vibrant dance community in your area will keep you in the dance loop, so a good place to start is with the dance that is taught where you live. The good things about Lindy Hop are:

You can usually go to Lindy Hop classes without a partner, but you can often secure your place by signing up with a partner. Dance classes are a great way to get to know yourself and your partner, so Lindy Hop is also recommended for couples. Once you get over the awkward initial phase and get the hang of dancing, you can dance lindy through the summers of your life.

Where can I learn Lindy Hop?

Lindy Hop has been popular enough, at least in recent years, that beginner courses are available at least in the major cities. Throughout the year, there are also dance camps to get you started.

In Oulu, Finland, you can dance lindy at SwingO courses and events. To find associations in other cities, Google “lindy hop (name of your town)”.

Starting to dance can be daunting and exciting, but Lindy Hop gives more than it takes. So it’s worth letting the bounce get under your feet and taking the plunge.