If you’ve ever found yourself tapping your feet to the beat of “Cupid Shuffle” or stepping in time with “The Electric Slide,” then you already know the magic of line dancing. Line dancing isn’t just a fun way to move — it’s a rich cultural expression that encourages movement and creates community.

While the format of line dancing dates back centuries across cultures, Black communities in the U.S. made it their own during the soul, disco, and funk eras of the '70s and '80s. Dances like the “Bus Stop” and “Electric Slide” became community staples at cookouts, family reunions, and church events. By the time the '90s rolled around, line dances like the “Cha Cha Slide” and “Wobble” were not just party favorites — they were cultural touchstones, passed down through generations. Each routine told a story of joy, resilience, and togetherness.

What began as a personal journey to improve her health in 2008 has blossomed into a vibrant line dancing community led by Lisa Wylie, founder of the No LimitXpress Line Dancing Class (NLX). A resident of Baltimore County, Maryland, Lisa first stepped onto the dance floor in search of physical wellness. But what she found was a passion for movement, music, and connection that couldn’t be contained.

In her early days, Lisa immersed herself in the local line dancing scene. She attended classes led by popular instructors like Trish Womack, Randy Dennis, and Ronnie Goode, learning a wide range of routines and styles. Through their guidance, she gained not only skill but also inspiration. In 2013, Lisa first began instructing line dances at work when a colleague asked her to give lessons to staff during lunch. By 2015, another friend encouraged her to start a class of her own — and with that, No LimitXpress was born.

Today, Lisa teaches weekly classes and hosts regular events at the Randallstown Community Center in Randallstown, MD. Alongside her is Yatease Ajumia, who assists with instruction and helps maintain the inclusive, supportive spirit NLX is known for. True to its name, No LimitXpress embraces a wide spectrum of line dance styles — from trail ride, Zydeco, hip-hop, gospel, and urban. With one class fee on Eventbrite, participants have access to both the beginner’s and intermediate classes for the day, making No LimitXpress an excellent value. You can see the joy each class brings to its participants in the several videos found on the No LimitXpress social media accounts.

One of the biggest draws to her classes is the popularity of trendy routines like Boots on the Ground, a staple in the trail ride genre. These dances have helped spark a resurgence in interest, attracting new participants — some who come just to learn a single viral dance.

But Lisa’s approach goes far beyond just keeping up with the latest trends. She has a heart for teaching dancers at every level, especially beginners. Recognizing that many people feel intimidated by learning new steps, she took care to restructure her classes to offer more support and encouragement. Whether someone knows the basics or can’t tell their right foot from their left, Lisa meets them with patience, guidance, and a genuine desire to help them succeed.

For Lisa, the true reward lies in those breakthrough moments — when a student who once struggled with a routine finally masters it. Hearing, “I got it!” from an excited student brings her so much joy.

Through her work with NLX, Lisa Wylie has not only helped others embrace fitness and fun, but also created a welcoming space where people of all backgrounds and abilities can come together — one step at a time.

 Benefits
In recent years, line dancing has made a major comeback, especially among older Black adults. And it’s no surprise why:

Cardiovascular Health

Line dancing is a low-impact aerobic exercise that gets the heart pumping. For adults over 50, especially those managing hypertension or heart disease, regular movement is crucial. The repetitive steps and moderate intensity help improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and boost endurance.

Joint Mobility and Balance

Aging often brings challenges like arthritis and decreased balance. Line dancing gently engages the joints, improving flexibility and coordination. The structured movements help participants build muscle memory and stability, reducing the risk of falls.

Cognitive Function

Learning and remembering dance routines stimulates the brain. Studies show that dance can delay cognitive decline and improve memory. For Black older adults, who face higher risks of Alzheimer’s and dementia due to systemic health disparities, line dancing offers a fun and effective way to keep the mind sharp.

Weight Management

Regular participation in line dancing can aid in weight control. Combined with a balanced diet, it helps burn calories and maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI), which is especially important for managing diabetes—a condition disproportionately affecting Black communities.

Community and Intergenerational Bonds

Line dancing isn’t just for the older — it’s a bridge between generations. Grandparents teach their grandchildren the steps, and younger dancers bring new moves to the floor. This exchange fosters mutual respect and keeps traditions alive.

In many Black communities, line dancing classes are held in churches, senior centers, and local gyms. These spaces become hubs of intergenerational learning, mentorship, and joy. The dance floor becomes a place where wisdom is shared, and age is celebrated—not hidden.

Combatting Loneliness

Social isolation is a growing concern among older adults. Line dancing creates a sense of belonging. Whether in a weekly class or at a community event, participants connect, laugh, and share stories. These interactions foster friendships and reduce feelings of loneliness and depression.

Cultural Affirmation

Line dancing is deeply embedded in Black cultural traditions. It’s a space where music, movement, and memory intersect. Dancing to classics like Frankie Beverly & Maze or newer hits like Boots on the Ground affirms identity and celebrates legacy. It’s a way to honor ancestors while staying connected to contemporary culture.

 Stress Reduction

Music and movement are powerful stress relievers. The rhythmic nature of line dancing, combined with familiar tunes, creates a meditative experience. Participants often report feeling uplifted and energized after a session, with reduced anxiety and improved mood.

Line dancing is far more than just a series of steps — it’s movement, memory, and medicine. From its roots in Black cultural traditions to the community Lisa Wylie has nurtured through No LimitXpress, line dancing continues to serve as a joyful reminder that wellness and connection can go hand in hand. Whether improving heart health, strengthening memory, or simply lifting spirits, each routine offers participants a chance to celebrate life together. As the music plays and the steps fall into rhythm, line dancing affirms what has always been true: joy multiplies when it’s shared.