Masai warriors demonstrate their strength and skill with their jumping dance, or adumu. Straight, narrow, and immobile, apart from their feet and legs, is key to this competitive dance. The height and style of the jump is the way to show their warrior strength and, of course, attract the women. They take it in turns to perform, with each man normally only jumping two or three times in sequence.
The Masai provide the music in vocal form, and sometimes add a horn, but other instruments are rarely used. The tone of the voices often rises to match the height of the jump.
As the jumper lands, he bends his legs to take the impact and prepare for the next rise, but their heels never touch the ground.
The Masais often dance for tourists, and I’m sure these affairs are more relaxed than when they are part of a tribal ceremony. Their performance is important in achieving and maintaining position in the tribe.
–
Copyright Debbie Smyth, 28 May 2019
Posted as part of Cee’s Fun Foto Challenge
Travel with Intent 
I have seen this in Kenya many years ago but I think it was the tourist version. It was impressive nonetheless.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, I’ve seen them in Kenya too. This group came from a village we had visited earlier that day, and they came over to our camp in the evening to dance and sing for us. They were very proud of their traditions and happy to talk to us. I was invited to stay in the village to learn their language
LikeLiked by 1 person
That would have been a great honor to be asked to stay.
LikeLike
That photo with the one guy jumping is amazing. Wonderful gallery 😀
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thanks Cee
LikeLike
I like the jumper photo in particular!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Great look!
LikeLiked by 1 person
I also found it interesting that they appear to be wearing athletic sandals, although that might not be correct.
ianet
LikeLiked by 1 person
Certainly not brands known to us – they are often hand made from old tyres!
LikeLiked by 1 person