Everybody's twerking for the the weekend

If you don't know the meaning behind the word "twerk" then chances are you have never done it and even more so, have never witnessed it. Hitting YouTube faster than a kitten doing pretty much anything (Note to self: Create video of kitten twerking), it seems like every video you see has to do with twerking. The most recent display being the ever infamous Miley Cyrus twerking at the VMAs:

Considered a simple dance move, twerking looks like fun, but if not done correctly can lead to injury (See here). Here are some rules on how to twerk and make it work:

1. Read up

So often people attempt to try something new without the proper knowledge. This usually does not end well. Before a night on the town with your gal pals, be sure to read up on the proper techniques. Not a reader? Not a problem! There are plenty of instructional videos to help you with your twerk. 

2. Stretch

Remember that twerking is a form of dance and exercise, so you want to make sure your body is properly warmed up and prepared to drop and pop without the lock. 

3. Practice, Practice, Practice

There is nothing more embarrassing than being out with your friends and wanting to show off something you have never done before. You risk injury, you risk looking like a fool and you risk losing your friends. Try twerking in front of a mirror twice a day. Once in the morning and once before bed. You'll see a progression and feel confident when you finally step onto a dance floor to do it for the first time.

4. Pick a song that works for you

Again, don't go for the showing off aspect right away. Certain songs might not work for your twerk. The more experienced twerkers in the world can twerk to a fast tempo song like it's no big deal, but if this is your first time, you're going to want to take it a little slower. Try out a few songs and be sure to create a playlist on your iTunes. 

5. Wear the right shoes

This is probably the most important and the one most commonly glossed over. Sure, you're going out to party, dance and potentially hook up with a hottie, so you want to look your best, but 6 inch heels can be very dangerous when twerking. Either opt for a lower heel, or keep a spare pair of flats to twerk in. If your location doesn't seem like one large health code violation, you might be bold enough to go barefoot. 

With these guidelines in mind, you are now ready to show off your money maker. Remember, twerking is not for everyone. If you have a history of heart disease, hip problems, have recently had knee surgery, are on certain medications, suffer from hearing loss, have a history of depression you should not be twerking. Consult your physician before twerking. Common side effects are sore muscles, fatigue, dry mouth, changes in patterns and rhythms of speech, clumsiness and unsteadiness, difficulty with coordination, memory loss, irritability, loss of appetite, lightheadedness, loss of interest or pleasure and in some severe cases, anal leakage. Discontinue twerking if you any of these side effects occur.