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African dance utilizes the concepts of polyrhythm and total body articulation.
Shoulders, chest, pelvis, arms, legs etc., may move with different rhythms in the music. They may also add rhythmic components independent of those in the music. Very complex movements are then possible even though the body does not move through space.

Different parts of the body are emphasized by different groups. The upper body is emphasized by the Anto-Ewe and Lobi of Ghana. Subtle accent of the hips is characteristic of the Kalabari of Nigeria. In Agbor strong contraction-release movements of the pelvis and upper torso characterize both male and female dancing. The Akan of Ghana use the feet and hands in specific ways.
Dancers are able to switch back and forth between rhythms without missing movements. It is extremely important that the dancers maintain clarity.