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 ska shows, except more violent, with slightly changed steps. 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. One knows when to 2-step because they hear/feel the beat, and know respond with 2-step. To the trained ear, it's instinctual. The most basic 2-step is performed like so: Step 1: (Simultaneously) Slight hop onto right foot, bring left leg forward (like a kick), bend over slightly and, bring the left arm back, the right arm left/downward across the body. Middle-step: Bring the left foot back, hopping onto it and putting your weight on it. Step 2: Shoot the left arm right/downward/across the body while bringing the right arm back and bringing the right leg forward (like kicking). Now Repeat. It clearly shows influence from, and is just a hardcore variation of, skanking. It's a very repititious, alternating, simple step, but it befits the music perfectly and many motions (violent arm swings) 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.