Skank (dance)

Skanking is a form of dancing practiced in the ska, ska punk, ska-core, hardcore punk, and grime music scenes.

Although there are several variations, one description is that the dancer alternately puts each foot forward while lifting the knee, and then moves each foot back. The person keeps the elbows bent, and puts their hands into fists. The right hand comes forward when the left leg is out, and the left hand comes forward when the right leg is out. When the hand isn't forward, it comes back about as far as the hip. While the use of arms and hands is possible, the focus remains on the movement and bending of the legs. This allows musicians to dance while using their arms for playing instruments.

The dance style originated in the 1950s or 1960s at Jamaican dance halls, where ska music was played. British mods and skinheads of the 1960s adopted these types of dances and altered them. The dancing style was revived during the 1970s/1980s 2 Tone era, and has been adopted by some individuals in the hardcore punk subculture. The punk version features a sharp striking out look with the arms, and is sometimes used in moshing to knock around others doing the same.