Since 1949 and release from feudal ethics Uygur women have joined in the mass Sanam dance. The movements are graceful, elegant and varied, determined by the music, tempo and occasion. For instance, head movements include turning the neck and shaking. The wrists revolve, cross and perform wavelike movements. Waist movements include lifting the chest, turning sideways, bending backward.
Leg movements are more varied, including pointing the toe, kicking backward, stamping and turning.
Owing to limited space for performance, Sanam has developed the coordination of different parts of the body and various postures to express the dancers' joyful feelings. The steps feature controlled but not stiff knees and flexible, lignt movements of the legs, closely coordinated with the drumbeat. The most common sequence of steps is three steps forward and one backward kick, the legs steady but shivering slightly. The fourth step, when the performer slides his foot on the ground and kicks backward, is neat and lively. One often sees old men and necks and shaking their heads when happy.