2-stepping

2-stepping is actually (potentially) the least violent move associated with hardcore dancing. 2-stepping is much like skanking, a dance typically performed at a ska show. 2-stepping/two-stepping is executed during a "2-step" part of the song. 2-step parts are typically characterized by "bass, bass, snare" rolling, repititious drum beats and a "rolling" guitar line. 2-stepping involves crossing your arm in front of you to the opposite side of your body whilst simultaneously throwing the opposite leg outward and bringing it back to the ground to brace onself for the same action on the other side of the body. (See link at bottom of Example section for a visual aid) It's a very repititious, alternating, simple step, but it befits the music perfectly and many motions can be incorporated to make it more fun and interesting to perform and/or watch.
In Buffalo, NY, for example, 2-step is done to the tempo of the music, whereas in the Cleveland, Ohio scene there is less concern with 2-stepping to the tempo and more attention is given to just 2-stepping as quickly and ferociously as one can.
There are many different variations of the 2-step including swiveling ones torso almost all the way to either side, throwing the arms or elbows back as part of the step, or 2-stepping very low to the ground.

Adam: "You have a unique 2-step."

Dave: "I love seeing a whole pit of kids 2-stepping. It really tugs on my heartstrings to see that many people having fun as a result of the same thi--"
Brit "Dave, shut up."

For a good example of a 2-step beat, listen between 1:10 and 1:30 in the song "Sun Poison and Skin Cancer" by The Acacia Strain

To see kids 2-stepping in person, just go to a hardcore show!

http:// i25.photobucket.com/album s/c75/ Oni117/iMOSH.gif
(take out the spaces)

by Dave November 08, 2006

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