Moves

Locking is a dance that came from the old '70s funk dancing. It may be done in solo or in unison with two or more dancers doing steps or handshakes together. A locker may smile while performing to emphasize the comical nature of the dance; other times, a serious demeanor will be maintained to place emphasis on technique. Other important stylistic features is waving of arms, pointing, walking stationary and grabbing and rotating the cap or hat. Don Campbell was the originator of the original freezes in 1971 which were called "locks"; he incorporated his unique rhythm and added gestures such as points and handclaps. Other dancers also adapted this style while adding some of the steps and moves listed below:

Alpha, created by Alpha Anderson; The Skeeter Rabbit, created by James "Skeeter Rabbit" Higgins; Stop 'n' Go, created by Greg "Campbellock Jr." Pope; Scooby Doo, created by Jimmy "Scooby Doo" Foster; Whichaway, created by Leo Williamson

Locking is by nature an improvisational dance, but also consists of a set of signature moves of locking pioneers. However, many lockers alter or blend these with other moves or create their own. In general lockers will often put a small pause and move up on the second and fourth beats to emphasize the locking and never use closed fists.

Alpha/applejax/Oilwells

One leg is kicked forward from a crouching position while the upper body is leaned backwards supported by both hands.

Break down

in the squatting position, shift the pelvis to the side, then back to center and stand up then down and shift to the other side, both hands doing the rotation (not twirl).

Bop-top

a bop top is where you make a 70s face step with it and some hand gesture

Box split

A semi-split done with one leg bent, which enables the dancer to get up again in one swift movement.

Crazy horse or Whichaway

Altering kicks to the sides with right and left legs, upper body stationary with arms in front as if holding reins .

Funky Broadway

Moving the feet from a 'V' position to an upside-down 'V' position, while moving to the side. The body generally lags behind.

Funky Chicken

Feet move from side to side with small kicks each way, while moving the body up and down. (This is different from the James Brown Funky Chicken.)

Groove Walk or Rock-Steady or The Bump

Stepping forward, the hip of your front foot is thrusted towards the front foot, brought back, dipped forward towards the front foot as you take a step with your back foot (sometimes used to get across the dance floor with some funk in your step)

Hop kick

A high, quick kick of one leg while standing straight on the other.

Knee Drop

Drop to the knees with knees pointing inwards (into a W shape leg position).

Leo Walk

A funky two step where the first is an exaggerated step in a particular direction, followed by sliding of the second foot along the floor to meet the first

Lock

Bending slightly forward with arms forming a circle downward, as if lifting a heavy object.

Pacing

A quick punch to the side, with hand starting just below the shoulder. (Fist should still be open.)

Pimp Walk

Similar to the Scooby Walk, but hands stay beside the dancer.

Stomp the cockroach

Going down on one knee, with the other leg pointing out to the side, then pounding the floor.

Scooby doo

Taking a stationary forward step, then making a Lock

Scooby walk

Walking forward, stopping and bending knees outward with each step, while bringing forward the opposite arms.

Scootbot or scoobop

Skipping while making the motion of an exaggerated step to the left or right.

The Skeeter Rabbit

          a kick and shiffle hop move

Stop-and-go/Busstop

          Taking a step back and to the left/right, then forward again.

Uncle Sam points

          A quick, extended pointing gesture, usually held for a few  seconds for emphasis

Watergate

Wrist roll or Twirl

          Twirling wrists while moving arms up and down in pace.