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KIZ.DANCE
Kiz Dance Journal
An official publication of the Kiz Dance Association
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A Word from the Publishers
Why Are We Doing This?
This Journal is an initiative of the Kiz Dance International Association.
It’s created for all Kizomba dancers — whether you dance Urban Kiz, Tarraxo, Konpa, Kizomba Fusion, Semba or any other related style, this space is for you.
Here, we bring together videos, articles, questionnaires, quizzes, tutorials, online classes and news covering almost every aspect of Kizomba life.
You’ll find useful information whether you’re just beginning your dance journey or have years of experience on the floor.
It’s created for all Kizomba dancers — whether you dance Urban Kiz, Tarraxo, Konpa, Kizomba Fusion, Semba or any other related style, this space is for you.
Here, we bring together videos, articles, questionnaires, quizzes, tutorials, online classes and news covering almost every aspect of Kizomba life.
You’ll find useful information whether you’re just beginning your dance journey or have years of experience on the floor.
KIZ DANCE CHART
"DEMOS"
"DEMOS"
Vote for your favorite DEMO and see who takes the top spot!
.
JP &
Stephy
Stephy
Azzedine
& Jeje
& Jeje
Aurea &
Tresor
Tresor
Fred-Nelson
& Morgane
& Morgane
Albir &
Natalia
Natalia
Which video do you like more?
Psychology in Dance
This block covers the psychological side of Kizomba Fusion. It helps you understand the emotions, challenges and patterns that show up in your dance journey, and how they reflect your real-life experiences and personal growth.
Explore the LEVEL UP PROGRAM to boost your dance knowledge
Program is developed by the Kiz Dance Association
2 Sides of 1 Moment
What’s happening in the minds of leaders and followers in the same situation?
One moment — two perspectives.
In this section, we explore real dance floor scenarios and uncover what’s going on inside — the thoughts, doubts, and silent hopes of both sides.
One moment — two perspectives.
In this section, we explore real dance floor scenarios and uncover what’s going on inside — the thoughts, doubts, and silent hopes of both sides.
“
She’s standing right next to me. I want to invite her — but what if she says no? She looks confident, stylish… Probably waiting for some top dancer. Okay, I’ll grab some water. If she’s still here when I get back…"
“
He’s right there. Is he looking at me… or am I imagining it? Why isn’t he inviting me? Maybe he’s shy. Maybe I seem unapproachable? Should I smile? But what if that’s too much?
How Fears Hold Us Back
Why are we afraid to invite someone to dance? This article explores the psychology behind it, shares real stories from leaders and followers, reveals mutual misunderstandings, and offers practical steps to build confidence.
A Space to Ask…
Followers, have you ever wanted to ask something directly to Leaders?
Leaders, are there things you’ve always been curious about from the Follower’s side?
Here’s your chance! This is a safe space to ask any question — practical, playful, emotional, or thought-provoking. Nothing is too small or too big, as long as it’s respectful and honest.
👉 In the next issue of the Journal, we’ll post the most popular questions from Followers and ask Leaders to respond — and vice versa. Let’s hear each other out!
Leaders, are there things you’ve always been curious about from the Follower’s side?
Here’s your chance! This is a safe space to ask any question — practical, playful, emotional, or thought-provoking. Nothing is too small or too big, as long as it’s respectful and honest.
👉 In the next issue of the Journal, we’ll post the most popular questions from Followers and ask Leaders to respond — and vice versa. Let’s hear each other out!
The Communication Spot
Are you curious about the thoughts and opinions of Leaders and Followers?
Let’s discover what Leaders and Followers enjoy most and truly want in a dance.
Below are questions tailored separately for Leaders and Followers.
Leaders – vote in your section.
Followers – vote in yours.
You can also view each other’s answers – a fun and insightful way to better understand your partner’s wishes, preferences, and what makes the dance experience magical for both.
Let’s connect through curiosity and communication!
Let’s discover what Leaders and Followers enjoy most and truly want in a dance.
Below are questions tailored separately for Leaders and Followers.
Leaders – vote in your section.
Followers – vote in yours.
You can also view each other’s answers – a fun and insightful way to better understand your partner’s wishes, preferences, and what makes the dance experience magical for both.
Let’s connect through curiosity and communication!
Questions for Followers
To be answered by Followers only
Do you enjoy simple movements—when they’re led with care, clarity, and musicality, even without any tricky steps?
Do you enjoy subtle pauses—moments with no steps—that reflect something beautiful in the music?
Do you enjoy those little shared “mistakes” that make you smile together? Or do you prefer a dance without mistakes at all?
Do you prefer a gentle lead, or one with more firmness and clarity?
Do you appreciate it when a leader gives you a moment to breathe after a challenging set of steps?
Your vote has been submitted. Thank you for participating!
Questions for Leaders
To be answered by Leaders only
Do you enjoy creating dances from simple movements, focusing on connection and musicality rather than complexity?
Do you like to use pauses in your dance—to reflect the music or connect more deeply with your partner?
Do you like to lead with gentle clarity, or with firmer intention?
Do you enjoy it when followers add lady styling, as long as it doesn’t interfere with your lead?
Do you enjoy dancing with followers who have a lower level than yours?
Your vote has been submitted. Thank you for participating!
A Space to Share…
Let’s talk about what we LIKE and DON'T LIKE about dancing.
It’s always interesting to hear each other’s opinions, don’t you think?
What do you truly enjoy about dancing Kizomba and what doesn’t resonate with you?
It could be something subtle, technical, social or emotional — anything that stands out in your experience.
👉 Followers and Leaders, this is your space to speak up.
We’ll post a selection of the most popular and thoughtful answers in the next issue of our Journal.
Let’s keep the conversation and the connection alive!
It’s always interesting to hear each other’s opinions, don’t you think?
What do you truly enjoy about dancing Kizomba and what doesn’t resonate with you?
It could be something subtle, technical, social or emotional — anything that stands out in your experience.
👉 Followers and Leaders, this is your space to speak up.
We’ll post a selection of the most popular and thoughtful answers in the next issue of our Journal.
Let’s keep the conversation and the connection alive!
MUSICALITY
This block features a series of articles dedicated to musicality. Together, we’ll explore its many layers — discovering, practicing, and developing the ability to truly dance with the music.
You dance because you listen to the music and move with it. Don’t forget it!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
WATCH THE VIDEO CLASS WHERE ALBIR EXPLAINS THE STRUCTURE OF A SONG USING ONE EXAMPLE — AND HOW TO PLAY WITH ITS ELEMENTS IN DANCE BASED ON A COMBINATION
WATCH THE VIDEO CLASS WHERE ALBIR EXPLAINS THE STRUCTURE OF A SONG USING ONE EXAMPLE — AND HOW TO PLAY WITH ITS ELEMENTS IN DANCE BASED ON A COMBINATION
FOR BEGINNERS
This block features a series of articles created for beginners (and not only). We’ll cover essential topics that can support you at the start of your Kizomba journey — the kind of insights most teachers don’t have time to explain during regular classes. Even experienced dancers may discover useful reminders or concepts they missed along the way.
Discover why musicality matters in Kizomba! Learn how to connect with the music, build your musicality step by step, and explore a beginner-friendly playlist included in the article.
A beginner’s guide to Kizomba styles — learn key differences, understand what you're learning now, and discover what you might want to explore next.
Learn the most common mistakes beginners make in Kizomba—from poor posture to overthinking steps—and how to avoid them. Simple tips to help you feel more confident, connected, and relaxed on the dance floor.
Explore the LEVEL UP PROGRAM to boost your dance knowledge
Program is developed by the Kiz Dance Association
HEALTH AND DANCE
This block offers a series of articles exploring the connection between health and dance — how dancing can support your well-being, and how caring for your body can help you dance better, longer, and with more awareness.
Well Dance — the program designed specifically for KIZ dancers, where wellness meets wellbeing. Created by Carola Tauler — professional dancer and co-creator of the technical foundation of Urban Kiz.
👉 More info: https://well.dance
👉 More info: https://well.dance
Individual Techniques
A series of articles designed to introduce you to the concept of individual dance techniques. Learn what they are, how they work, and how mastering them can elevate your dancing to the next level.
Explore the LEVEL UP PROGRAM to boost your dance knowledge
Program is developed by the Kiz Dance Association
Video Class with Sandra Gutiérrez
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Video Class with Sandra Gutiérrez — One of the World's Top Kizomba Teachers
This workshop is a great opportunity to improve your individual technique and body control.
Check out Sandra’s Instagram and get inspired by her stunning demo videos!
@sandraa.gutierrez
More classes with Sandra Gutiérrez - sandragutierrez.dance
Video Class with Sandra Gutiérrez — One of the World's Top Kizomba Teachers
This workshop is a great opportunity to improve your individual technique and body control.
Check out Sandra’s Instagram and get inspired by her stunning demo videos!
@sandraa.gutierrez
More classes with Sandra Gutiérrez - sandragutierrez.dance
CHOREOGRAPHY
Do you know why choreography can help you grow as a dancer?
Have you noticed that most professional and advanced dancers take part in choreographies? That’s because it challenges their technique, musicality, memory, and stage presence — all essential skills to level up your dancing.
We’d love to share inspiring choreography videos with you and encourage you to join one yourself. It might just be the next step in your dance journey!
Have you noticed that most professional and advanced dancers take part in choreographies? That’s because it challenges their technique, musicality, memory, and stage presence — all essential skills to level up your dancing.
We’d love to share inspiring choreography videos with you and encourage you to join one yourself. It might just be the next step in your dance journey!
👉 Read the article to learn more
.
Want to Try an Online Class with a Kizomba Fusion Choreography?
We’ve got a special KizFit choreography class from the MKIZ Library just for you!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
We’ve got a special KizFit choreography class from the MKIZ Library just for you!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Did You See the New Choreography by Albir & Natalia and Fred-Neslon & Morgane at the 2K Festival?
Want to Learn the Choreography Too?
Watch the video of workshop with these 2 amazing couples at the 2K Festival in July 2025!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Watch the video of workshop with these 2 amazing couples at the 2K Festival in July 2025!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Helpful Tip 💡
In the morning, avoid checking your phone right away. Instead, start moving gently and mindfully. Do simple exercises while brushing your teeth, making breakfast, or getting dressed. For example, try light pops (sharp, isolated muscle movements used in dance) or circular motions with your feet to loosen the joints — something that’s also important before classes and parties.
👉 Why it helps: These small habits help awaken your body, improve mobility, and set a positive tone for your day, both in daily life and on the dance floor. Even just 5 minutes can make a difference!
👉 Why it helps: These small habits help awaken your body, improve mobility, and set a positive tone for your day, both in daily life and on the dance floor. Even just 5 minutes can make a difference!
Words That Guide Your Dance
Key concepts are more than just words. They shape how you move, feel, and connect on the dance floor. Let them inspire deeper awareness and intentionality in every step.
Think about how you apply them in your dance!
Think about how you apply them in your dance!
A deep state of knowing what you are doing and why you're doing it while dancing. It's the foundation of intentional movement.
The ability to notice what’s happening inside and around you: your body, your partner, the music, and the space.
Being fully in the moment—mentally, emotionally, and physically—so your dance becomes alive and connected.
Feeling stable, connected to the floor, and centered in your body. It brings calm, control, and power to your movement.
Observation Task - Posture Awareness
Take a moment to observe how people stand and walk around you — in the street, at the airport, at a party, or any public place. Notice their posture:
👉 This exercise helps develop body awareness, essential for both dance presence and everyday confidence.
- Are their shoulders tense or relaxed?
- Is their chest open or collapsed?
- How do they hold their head and neck?
- Do they walk with confidence or hesitation?
👉 This exercise helps develop body awareness, essential for both dance presence and everyday confidence.
Faces of Kizomba
We present to you some of the key people representing the Kizomba scene around the world.
Watch their interviews, read their stories, and get to know the teachers, DJs, and organisers who are shaping the Kizomba world.
Watch their interviews, read their stories, and get to know the teachers, DJs, and organisers who are shaping the Kizomba world.
Teachers
A Conversation with Azzedine
(within Embrace Tribe)
(within Embrace Tribe)
Curious about the journey of top Kizomba artists? In this inspiring talk, Azzedine shares his story, insights, and advice for dancers.
Follow Azzedine on social media
What is Embrace Tribe?
It’s a vibrant community for those who see Kizomba as more than just steps. Embrace Tribe brings together dancers who want to deepen their connection, musicality, body awareness and technique — both online and in real life. Weekly online sessions (classes + discussions) and meetups at festivals make it a space for real growth, real talk, and real dance.
👉 Join Embrace Tribe
KIZ DANCE CHART
"teachers"
"teachers"
Vote for your favorite TEACHER and see who takes the top spot!
Tap the number to vote! 👇
Who is your favorite teacher beyond the list?
Do you have any questions for any teachers?
Ask them here and get your answers in the next issue of the Journal!
DJ's
Who is your favorite DJ?
festivals
This section features a series of interviews with festival organisers, along with festival recommendations and the latest news from the scene.
INTERVIEW WITH THE ORGANISER
TEMPTATION FESTIVAL
Discover what goes into creating your favorite Kizomba festivals
Watch the interview with Massemba, the organiser of Temptation Festival, read more about the event and get a behind-the-scenes look into how it's all brought to life.
Temptation Barcelona Festival 2025
Albir Rojas Interviews Dancers at the Festival
Albir Rojas Interviews Dancers at the Festival
Recommended Festivals
These festivals have been handpicked by our journal team, with valuable input from our dance friends and trusted teachers.
Which festivals do you enjoy most and want to recommend to others?
Share your favorites with us — we’ll publish the results in the next Journal issue!
Share your favorites with us — we’ll publish the results in the next Journal issue!
Do you have something to say to festival organizers?
Your wishes, ideas or thoughts — whether positive or critical — about festivals in general.
The most insightful and interesting thoughts will be published in the next issue of Kiz Dance Journal.
Your wishes, ideas or thoughts — whether positive or critical — about festivals in general.
The most insightful and interesting thoughts will be published in the next issue of Kiz Dance Journal.
STYLES
Are You a Hugger or a Stepper?
Do you know what Huggers and Steppers are in the Kizomba world? Let’s take a closer look at these two styles that reflect how we connect, move, and interpret the music.
We asked dancers at Temptation Festival to share who they are — Hugger, Stepper, or a mix of both.
Now we’re curious about you.
Tell us how you see yourself by answering the quick question below.
We'll share the results in the next issue of the Kiz Dance Journal to see who’s more represented on the dance floor!
We asked dancers at Temptation Festival to share who they are — Hugger, Stepper, or a mix of both.
Now we’re curious about you.
Tell us how you see yourself by answering the quick question below.
We'll share the results in the next issue of the Kiz Dance Journal to see who’s more represented on the dance floor!
👉 Read the article to learn more
One Follower - Two Styles
Watch how the same follower dances with two different leaders — and feel the difference between Hugger and Stepper energy.
Marija Džolić - follow on Instagram @marijetadz
Watch how the same follower dances with two different leaders — and feel the difference between Hugger and Stepper energy.
Marija Džolić - follow on Instagram @marijetadz
Hugging
Stepping
.
What Style Do You Prefer?
We’ve selected 6 videos that showcase 2 different styles.
One style features dynamic tricks and complex combinations. The other emphasizes body movement, fluidity and smooth flow.
Which do you like dancing more — the first style, the second or maybe both?
We’ve selected 6 videos that showcase 2 different styles.
One style features dynamic tricks and complex combinations. The other emphasizes body movement, fluidity and smooth flow.
Which do you like dancing more — the first style, the second or maybe both?
The 1st Style
(dynamic tricks and complex combinations)
Justinho
& Marta
& Marta
JoJo &
Katherine
Katherine
Dadié &
Alexandra
Alexandra
The 2nd Style
(body movement, fluidity and smooth flow)
Steffy
& John
& John
Dinara
& Max
& Max
Curtis
& Jeje
& Jeje
Tap the number to vote! 👇
STYLE 1 or STYLE 2
STYLE 1 or STYLE 2
KIZ PROJECTS
In this section, we’ll present various projects from the Kizomba world.
These projects showcase different styles, techniques, and unique approaches to the dance.
Keep an eye on this space to stay updated on the latest trends and fresh inspirations in the Kiz scene.
These projects showcase different styles, techniques, and unique approaches to the dance.
Keep an eye on this space to stay updated on the latest trends and fresh inspirations in the Kiz scene.
We’re presenting the Tetris Style Project by Val'R & Sarah
This fresh and creative style has quickly gained popularity, with dancers around the world learning to move in the unique Tetris way. Social media is already full of videos showing people dancing in Tetris Style.
Curious about how Tetris Style was born?
Watch the Tetris Style Introduction video, created especially for Embrace Tribe, along with an exclusive online class where Val'R and Sarah teach the core principles and basic combinations of the style.
Curious about how Tetris Style was born?
Watch the Tetris Style Introduction video, created especially for Embrace Tribe, along with an exclusive online class where Val'R and Sarah teach the core principles and basic combinations of the style.
Want to Learn more about Tetris Style?
Watch the video of online class with Val'R & Sarah and try these amazing techniques.
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Watch the video of online class with Val'R & Sarah and try these amazing techniques.
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Want to share your opinion about Tetris Style?
Do you like it or not? How does it look to you? Have you already tried it or do you feel it’s not your thing?
Be honest — there are no right or wrong answers. It’s all about your personal view.
Do you like it or not? How does it look to you? Have you already tried it or do you feel it’s not your thing?
Be honest — there are no right or wrong answers. It’s all about your personal view.
KIZ TEACHERS COMMUNITY
PROJECT
Are you a KIZ Teacher?
Join free online sessions for KIZ teachers held twice a month!
Organized and moderated by Albir Rojas and Natalia, with the support of the Kiz Dance Association, these sessions include:
– Special guests: top teachers
– Practice & discussions
– Experience exchange
– And much more
Organized and moderated by Albir Rojas and Natalia, with the support of the Kiz Dance Association, these sessions include:
– Special guests: top teachers
– Practice & discussions
– Experience exchange
– And much more
👉 Write “KIZ Teacher” on WhatsApp and join for free!
+34 681 9829 50
+34 681 9829 50
TUTORIALS
In this section, we’ve selected 15 tutorials from different teachers that we found especially inspiring on Instagram.
Try them out or simply watch and absorb some valuable insights from these amazing dancers and instructors. There’s something to learn from every style and approach!
Try them out or simply watch and absorb some valuable insights from these amazing dancers and instructors. There’s something to learn from every style and approach!
Want more? Check out 10 additional tutorials we’ve selected for you in the article.
Each one brings something fresh to explore and learn!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
Each one brings something fresh to explore and learn!
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
How Well Do You Know the Kizomba World?
Take a short quiz and test your knowledge!
Take a short quiz and test your knowledge!
🛡️ Protected Creativity
Protected Creativity is a curated section of the Journal, officially supported by the Kiz Dance Association.
Here we document and publicly acknowledge original dance combinations, exercises and methods created by instructors and dancers within the community.
Our goal is to foster a culture of respect for creative ownership. If you use any of these creations in your demos, classes, or content — please credit the original author.
✅ Registering here means: your idea is visible, acknowledged, and associated with your name through an official platform.
Here we document and publicly acknowledge original dance combinations, exercises and methods created by instructors and dancers within the community.
Our goal is to foster a culture of respect for creative ownership. If you use any of these creations in your demos, classes, or content — please credit the original author.
✅ Registering here means: your idea is visible, acknowledged, and associated with your name through an official platform.
Contact us if you’d like to protect your creation and have it published here.
LEVEL UP PROGRAM
🔥 Level Up Program — your fast track to a new level of dance!
The Level Up program is not just a collection of articles and video lessons. It’s carefully curated knowledge and insights from some of the best Kizomba teachers around the world — all in one place.
What makes it unique?
The Level Up program is not just a collection of articles and video lessons. It’s carefully curated knowledge and insights from some of the best Kizomba teachers around the world — all in one place.
What makes it unique?
Click here to know more
🔥 Level Up Program — your fast track to a new level of dance!
The Level Up program is not just a collection of articles and video lessons. It’s carefully curated knowledge and insights from some of the best Kizomba teachers around the world — all in one place.
What makes it unique?
✨ Only the essence, no fluff — clear advice and proven strategies that truly work.
✨ Structured learning — articles are organized into key themes: individual technique, partner technique, musicality, personal growth, and dance psychology.
✨ Compact format — a concentrated dose of experience that usually takes years to collect.
✨ Practical value — every piece gives you concrete steps and ideas you can apply right away on the dance floor.
✨ Accelerated progress — knowledge that helps you grow faster and stand out among others.
Level Up is the “secret upgrade” that turns regular classes into real growth. 🚀
Level Up Program is developed by the Kiz Dance Association together with Association members.
The Level Up program is not just a collection of articles and video lessons. It’s carefully curated knowledge and insights from some of the best Kizomba teachers around the world — all in one place.
What makes it unique?
✨ Only the essence, no fluff — clear advice and proven strategies that truly work.
✨ Structured learning — articles are organized into key themes: individual technique, partner technique, musicality, personal growth, and dance psychology.
✨ Compact format — a concentrated dose of experience that usually takes years to collect.
✨ Practical value — every piece gives you concrete steps and ideas you can apply right away on the dance floor.
✨ Accelerated progress — knowledge that helps you grow faster and stand out among others.
Level Up is the “secret upgrade” that turns regular classes into real growth. 🚀
Level Up Program is developed by the Kiz Dance Association together with Association members.
PERSONAL GROWTH IN DANCE
The series of articles on Personal Growth in Dance goes beyond just learning steps — it’s about shaping your own path as a dancer. In this section, you’ll explore how to stay inspired, set meaningful goals, and transform practice, festivals, and even everyday moments into opportunities for growth.
The series of articles on Personal Growth in Dance goes beyond just learning steps — it’s about shaping your own path as a dancer. In this section, you’ll explore how to stay inspired, set meaningful goals, and transform practice, festivals, and even everyday moments into opportunities for growth.
Thank you for reading Kiz Dance Journal!
We hope you found something useful or interesting in this issue.
If you’d like to share your thoughts, ideas, topic suggestions — or even contribute your own article — feel free to use the form below.
We hope you found something useful or interesting in this issue.
If you’d like to share your thoughts, ideas, topic suggestions — or even contribute your own article — feel free to use the form below.
You can also reach out to us via WhatsApp, Telegram, or Email. We’d love to hear from you!
WhatsApp +34681982950
Telegram @kizdance_s
Email kizdance.com@gmail.com
International Association "Kiz Dance"
WhatsApp +34681982950
Telegram @kizdance_s
Email kizdance.com@gmail.com
International Association "Kiz Dance"
Kiz Dance Association Membership
Free Membership based on a simplified registration system
We shall contact you via WhatsApp