What are the best TikTok dance challenges? The most popular influencers are going head to head to come up with the best TikTok dance challenges. And so far, the competition has been tight on this social media platform. But do you ever wonder what makes them tick? What makes them trending and go viral in such a short amount of time?
In this post, we will discover not only the best TikTok dance challenges, but the creatives behind them and their knack for knowing what will connect with their audience and what is doomed to be an epic fail. Aside from the dances, we’ll also check out what challenges are trending on TikTok and why they took the internet by storm. This will give you some great ideas if you want to kickstart your career as TikToker this year. Let’s go!
Key Takeaways:
- best TikTok dance challenges continue to dominate the platform, drawing millions of participants and engagement.
- The best TikTok dance challenges are often based on catchy songs with easy-to-follow, energetic moves.
- Simplicity and repetition are key—challenges that are too complex don’t gain as much traction.
- Influencers and celebrities play a big role in making the best TikTok dance challenges go viral.
- The TikTok algorithm rewards high engagement, so challenges that encourage duets and remixes perform well.
- Timing matters—posting at peak hours increases the chances of a challenge being noticed.
- The best TikTok dance challenges often originate from unknown creators before being picked up by major influencers.
What are 3 of the most popular TikTok dances? You’re in luck because we’re not going to give you 3, but 15 of them!
Tap In
Born as Diamonte Quiava Valentin Harper on July 2, 1993, Saweetie, as she is famously known, is an American rapper. Her singles Best Friend and Tap In both reached the top 20 of the Billboard Hot 100. This Grammy nominee for Best New Artist in 2021 also had her smash hit Tap In go viral on TikTok, thanks to a dance challenge started by user @yodamnmamma.
Go! Go! Go! Who’s next?
Originally derived from Hip Hop Harry, the lovable bear in the children’s television series that launched in September 2006, “Go, Go, Go! Who’s Next?” is part of the show’s freestyle dance routine used to educate children about physical, social, and emotional development. This type of freestyle has the type of appeal that will also lure millions of TikTokers to come out with their own “Stanky leg” dance version.
Out West
Sang by JackBoys’ leader American rapper and singer Travis Scott, featuring vocals from Young Thug, the Out West Dance Challenge burst into the TikTok scene. Superstar celebrities Usher, Ellen DeGeneres, and Shaquille O’Neil got on the trend, too. The dance’s original creator is Nicole Bloomgarden and she didn’t expect it to blow up at all. And when viral TikTokers like Charli D’Amelio did it too, Bloomgarden found it difficult to get recognition. However, she was really happy how everybody was killing it on TikTok.
WAP
Now, this song was so controversial that even the singer herself, Cardi B. said she didn’t want her two-year-old daughter to hear it yet. Also featuring Megan Thee Stallion, WAP (Wet-Ass Pussy) was released by Atlantic Records in August 2020. This hip-hop song is filled with heavy bass drum beats that possibly contributed to it becoming a TikTok phenomenon. Some people praised the song for having a sex-positive message, while conservative commentators voiced their criticism about its explicit nature.
Sexy Back
This Justin Timberlake hit song featuring Timbaland made its way to the TikTok choreographed dance challenge as well. TikToker @jenniferjeppssson created this dance, and along with her friends, went around in a circle while performing various moves to go with the music. It quickly went viral and everyone on the platform was excited to make their version. Definitely deserves to be included in the best TikTok Dance Challenges 2022!
The Box
Roddy Ricch’s smash hit “The Box” gained worldwide popularity in part to TikToker superstar Charli D’Amelio. Since the single was dropped in January 2020 it has already gone octuple platinum (yup, 8x platinum!). The song has inspired people to break barriers and social norms. Proving that they can achieve their dreams on their own terms.
Cannibal
Cannibal was a song that was performed by American singer and songwriter Kesha back in 2010. It gained viral status in February 2020 when its dance trend emerged on the TikTok app. The revival of the song pushed it to enter numerous charts, even becoming a Canadian top 40 single. Kesha then joined the app and released a viral dance routine alongside Charli D’Amelio.
Number One Baby
Young Thug, who also earned his number one single “Havana” with Camila Cabello, performed this song. The original dance was created by 14-year-old Jalaiah Harmon back in September 2019. It quickly blew up and her dance is frequently performed in TikTok competitions.
Supalonely
Supalonely was performed by New Zealand singer Benee and featured American singer Gus Dapperton. The track was released in December 2019 as part of her second EP Stella & Steve. It burst into the TikTok scene in March 2020 and garnered over 6.9 billion plays that month. The song was included in the top 40 in more than 25 countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, and The Netherlands. Zoe Lerma created the popular dance for the tune.
Savage
American rapper Megan Thee Stallion’s Savage was released on March 6, 2020, as part of her Extended Play Suga. It was catapulted to US Top 40 radio formats by April 7, 2020. Ohio-based TikToker Keara Wilson started the Savage dance challenge and was even copyrighted for the choreography.
Don’t Start Now
Don’t Start now is a song from Future Nostalgia, Dua Lipa’s second studio album that was released in 2020. Warner Records released the song for digital download back in October 2019 as the album’s lead single. Although Dua Lipa is reclaiming her viral TikTok dance that she accidentally created back in 2017, it was teenager Hannah Kaye Balanay who started the challenge where 3.8 million people followed her dance moves.
Vibe
Cookie Kawaii, whose real name is Vanice Palmer is best known for her single Vibe. After it became viral on TikTok in 2020 she signed up for Empire and in 2021 released her first studio album, Vanice.
Say So
For those who are not aware, this song that became viral on TikTok samples Nile Rodger’s guitar riff from Good Times, the Chic’s 1979 hit. Say So was part of Doja Cat’s second studio album entitled Hot Pink in 2019. The disco-infused sound is what makes it so danceable as proven by TikToker Haley Sharpe who popularized the song back in December.
Laxed- Siren Beat
Jawsh 685, who goes by the real name of Joshua Christian Nanai, is a beatmaker and music producer from New Zealand who made his breakthrough with the hit song Savage Love (Laxed-Siren Beat) with American singer Jason Derulo. When BTS made the song remix, it reached number one in more than 15 countries including the US, UK, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia. The dance went viral on TikTok since its dance set is relatively easy, which practically anyone can do.
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I’m Moving Too Fast
Originally performed by Marc Era, entry into the best TikTok dance challenges went viral back in March with over 5.7 million users on TikTok dancing to the choreography and audio by Deandre Lamar. Lamar was first seen dancing to the video himself on February 29.
What Is The Most Popular Dance Move On TikTok?
It’s hard to decide but here are some of them. Learn them all and be the best TikTok dancer online!
- The Whoah
- Throw It Back
- The Moonwalk
- The Dolphin
- Bust Down
- The Clap
- The Hip Move
- The Mop
- The Body Roll
- The Hip Pop
- Dice Walk
- The Hit Yo’ Hips
- Happy Feet
How TikTok Dances and Other Challenges Go Viral
Now that we know some of the top TikTok dance challenges songs, let’s go and find out what makes them go viral in the first place. Is there a secret formula that up-and-coming TikTokers could use that could spell their surefire success? Or just like most trending things online, it’s basically a “hit-or-miss” type of phenomenon? Let’s check it out.
Wee Buns
TikTok’s allure? Simplicity. The best TikTok dance challenges often thrive on this principle. While professional dancers dazzle, it’s the everyday user—the amateur, the enthusiast, the spontaneous mover—who truly embodies the platform’s spirit. TikTok serves as a haven where everyone, regardless of skill, can dance and express themselves freely.
Perfection in form or flawless execution? Not prerequisites here. The essence lies in crafting something distinct and imaginative. With TikTok, users are provided a foundational “template”: a soundbite, a snippet of choreography. From this starting point, one can develop a personal rendition or remix, contributing to the ever-evolving tapestry of the best TikTok dance challenges.
Stick Out Like A Sore Thumb
TikTok’s algorithm—a labyrinthine enigma. Content curation hinges on each user’s “For You Page,” resulting in an endless array of personalized video streams.
Yet, a common thread weaves through these viral sensations. The best TikTok dance challenges are characterized by their infectious energy and undeniable catchiness. Upon encountering them, viewers are compelled to learn the moves. Moreover, there’s an intimate connection, as if engaging in a personal video call with the performer.
Algorithm With Prejudice
A critical insight into TikTok’s algorithm reveals unsettling practices. Sydney Skybetter, Director of Theatre Arts and Performance Studies at Brown University, notes TikTok’s emphasis on artificial intelligence, employing technologies like facial recognition and pose estimation as core components.
Skybetter references a 2019 incident where TikTok suppressed content from creators perceived as overweight, LGBTQ+, or disabled, purportedly to shield them from cyberbullying. This approach not only limits certain physical representations but also actively promotes others.
Another significant flaw is TikTok’s lack of a built-in system to credit dance originators. This issue gained prominence in 2020 when The New York Times highlighted Jalaiah Harmon, the 14-year-old creator of the viral “Renegade” dance, who initially received little recognition.
Alarmingly, instances have arisen where Black teens not only lacked acknowledgment for their creations but also witnessed others profiting from their work, highlighting systemic injustices. Despite these challenges, the best TikTok dance challenges continue to captivate audiences, underscoring the platform’s complex dynamics.
Best Editing Video Apps For TikTok
After knowing the perks and downsides of TikTok and you’re still determined to become the next celebrity TikToker (or just want to have fun with your audience), here are some of the best TikTok video editing apps to dazzle your viewers and maybe even create one of the best TikTok dance challenges.
ViaMaker
Developed by Bytedance, ViaMaker is a free app that assists in crafting impressive videos. It offers features like cutting, reversing, and speed adjustments, along with advanced effects and filters. Users can also access an extensive music library and customize their videos with unique fonts and stickers.
BeeCut
BeeCut is a free, all-in-one video editing app ideal for TikTokers who are new to video creation. It provides tools for filtering, cutting, cropping, transitions, rotating, and adding effects. The user-friendly interface allows for the creation of amazing videos with just a few clicks, supporting various video resolutions including 1080p, 720p, and 480p.
Zoomerang
Available on both Google Play and Apple’s App Store, Zoomerang is a beginner-friendly app offering step-by-step tutorials. Users can select their favorite TikTok dances and learn how to perform them. The app includes editing tools such as filters, effects, and music. A pro subscription provides an ad-free experience and access to additional features.
By leveraging these video editing apps, you can create engaging content that stands out in the best TikTok dance challenges. Remember, the key to success in these challenges is not only showcasing your dance skills but also presenting them in a visually appealing and creative manner.
How to Create Your Own Viral TikTok Dance Challenge
So, you’ve seen the biggest trends take over the platform, and now you’re wondering—how do I create my own viral dance challenge? While it may seem like a stroke of luck, there are actually key factors that can help your choreography go from just another video to becoming one of the best TikTok dance challenges. From crafting the perfect routine to leveraging TikTok’s algorithm, here’s everything you need to know to increase your chances of going viral and joining the ranks of the best TikTok dance challenges.
Choose the Right Song
Music is the heartbeat of the best TikTok dance challenges. The catchier the beat, the more likely people will want to move to it. The most successful viral TikTok dances are set to songs that have:
- A strong, energetic beat
- Memorable hooks or lyrics that users can incorporate into movements
- A tempo that allows for easy-to-follow choreography
- A pre-existing trend or hype on TikTok (e.g., trending sounds in the app’s music library)
If you want to improve your chances of success, pick a song that’s already gaining traction on TikTok. Keep an eye on what’s appearing on the For You Page (FYP) and check the Trending Sounds section for inspiration. Some of the best TikTok dance challenges have emerged from songs that already had a built-in audience.
Keep the Moves Simple but Engaging
One of the biggest reasons why some TikTok dance challenges explode in popularity is their simplicity. If a dance routine is too complicated, most users won’t bother trying to learn it. The best TikTok dance challenges often include:
- Repetitive moves that can be easily memorized
- Hand gestures or arm movements that match the song’s lyrics
- Short routines (10-15 seconds) that fit within a TikTok clip
- Moves that anyone can do, regardless of skill level
Think about some of the most iconic TikTok dances—the Renegade, the Woah, the Say So challenge. They aren’t about professional-level choreography but fun, easy moves that anyone can copy.
Make It Interactive and Relatable
TikTok thrives on interaction. If your dance challenge is fun and encourages user participation, it’s more likely to spread. Some ways to do this include:
- Adding a signature move that people can easily recognize and recreate
- Creating a duet-friendly dance so users can collaborate with their favorite creators
- Encouraging users to add their own unique spin to the challenge
- Adding facial expressions or gestures that tell a story
People love challenges that feel personal and give them the freedom to express themselves. This is a common feature among the best TikTok dance challenges.
Post at the Right Time
Timing is everything on TikTok. The algorithm rewards videos that gain fast engagement, so posting at peak hours increases your chances of being seen. Best times to post TikTok videos include:
- Morning (6 AM – 10 AM) – People are checking their phones before school or work
- Afternoon (12 PM – 3 PM) – A quick TikTok scroll during lunch breaks
- Evening (7 PM – 11 PM) – Peak TikTok hours when users are most active
Post your dance challenge video multiple times at different hours and use different angles, effects, and captions to test what resonates best.
Use Hashtags and Captions Wisely
Hashtags help your challenge reach the right audience. Some of the most important TikTok hashtags to use for a dance challenge include:
- #TikTokDanceChallenge
- #TrendingDance
- #ViralChallenge
- #DanceTrend
- #ForYouPage (#FYP)
Pair your hashtags with a compelling caption. Something as simple as “Can you do this? 🤔🔥 Show me your moves! #DanceChallenge” encourages people to join in. Many of the best TikTok dance challenges have gone viral simply because they were labeled correctly and found the right audience.
Engage with Comments and Shares
The more engagement your video gets, the more the algorithm will push it to new viewers. To keep your challenge trending, you should:
- Reply to comments and encourage discussions
- Like and share other users’ versions of your dance challenge
- Stitch or duet other users to keep the trend going
- Encourage friends and popular TikTokers to join the challenge
Collaborate with Influencers and Friends
One of the fastest ways to make your challenge go viral is by getting influencers to do it. The moment popular TikTok creators take part in a dance challenge, millions of their followers will follow suit.
If you don’t know any influencers personally, try:
- Tagging popular TikTok dancers in your challenge video
- Using TikTok’s duet feature to dance alongside well-known creators
- Encouraging your friends and followers to participate and tag others
The goal is visibility—the more people see your challenge, the more likely it is to spread across TikTok. Many of the best TikTok dance challenges gained traction simply because influencers helped them reach a larger audience.
Be Consistent and Keep Trying
Not every TikTok dance challenge goes viral overnight. Some take weeks, others months. But consistency is key—keep posting, experimenting with different styles, and engaging with the community. After all, creating one of the best TikTok dance challenges doesn’t come overnight.
Even if one dance challenge doesn’t take off, you can always try another. The biggest TikTokers didn’t go viral from one video—they kept creating and adapting until something clicked. Many of today’s best TikTok dance challenges were created by people who didn’t stop at just one attempt.
FAQ:
What makes a TikTok dance challenge go viral?
The best TikTok dance challenges have a mix of catchy music, simple moves, and high engagement. The more people who can easily copy the routine, the higher the chance of it spreading.Who creates the best TikTok dance challenges?
Influencers, music artists, and even regular users. Some of the biggest challenges have been created by unknown TikTokers who suddenly went viral.What is the most popular TikTok dance?
The best TikTok dance challenges change frequently, but classics like the Renegade, Say So, and Savage challenges remain iconic.Why do some TikTok dance challenges get more attention than others?
The TikTok algorithm favors content with high engagement, meaning dances that are fun, easy, and interactive tend to perform better. This is one way some of the best TikTok dance challenges are develooped.How can I get my TikTok dance challenge noticed?
Use trending music, simple moves, popular hashtags, and encourage duets or collaborations to increase visibility. Many TikTok dance challenges started out this way.Do TikTok dancers get credit for their original choreography?
Not always. Many dance creators, especially Black TikTokers, have struggled to receive recognition when their moves are copied by more popular influencers.Can I create my own viral TikTok dance challenge?
Yes! Many of the best TikTok dance challenges started from everyday users who created simple, fun, and engaging dance moves that quickly gained traction.
TikTok Dance Craze: Go Big Or Go Home
For some, the best TikTok dance challenges are all about showing off their smooth moves and having fun with their friends. But for those who wish to take it to the next level and even monetize their TikTok journey, make sure to do your homework and learn everything you need to know to stay on top. Also, don’t forget to utilize the most efficient apps and tools to make your life easier (like the one in this Lately review), like managing your social media accounts. Make sure everything is on queue so you can just load it, and forget it! Good luck!
Now that you’ve learned about the top TikTok dance challenges, you may want to boost your TikTok videos. Check out our article ” TikTok Video Size: Guide to Video Specs Dimensions and Length.”
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