Understanding the Exo Jig Dance Craze Sweeping Through Pro Sports

Understanding the Exo Jig Craze in Sports

The exo jig has become an incredibly popular sports celebration move over the past few years. Athletes across various sports have adopted their own versions of the exo jig to celebrate big plays and wins. But what exactly is the exo jig and how did it become such a sensation?

The Origins of the Exo Jig

The exo jig is believed to have originated in 2017 from NFL wide receiver Stefon Diggs. After scoring a touchdown, Diggs began celebrating by dancing with his arms swinging back and forth in a "jigging" motion. This energetic dance move became known as the "exo jig" and quickly caught on with other players.

There are a few theories about why it's called the exo jig. Some believe it's in reference to Exonuclease, an enzyme that helps repair DNA. The repeating arm motion is said to resemble that enzyme at work. Others think it relates to Exoskeletons, which Diggs' arm movements imitate.

The Exo Jig Goes Viral

It didn't take long for the exo jig to spread across sports at all levels. NFL stars like Tyreek Hill brought their own flair to it by adding in hip swivels and two-handed jigging. It became a popular group celebration dance in the NFL, with entire squads joining in.

The exo jig caught on in other leagues too. MLB players would break it out after home runs. NBA stars busted it out after big dunks. Soccer players exo jigged after scoring goals. Before long, youth athletes everywhere were exo jigging during games.

Why Athletes Love the Exo Jig

There are several reasons why the exo jig became so popular among sports stars:

• It's high energy and fun - the loose, swinging arm motions get you hyped up.
• It's easy to do - anyone can pick up the simple move.
• It's customizable - athletes can add their own flair to make it unique.
• It rallies teammates - when done together, it builds team camaraderie.
• It pumps up fans - the exo jig engages and excites spectators.

For many athletes, the exo jig is the perfect celebration. It allows them to show off their excitement and individuality, while including teammates and fans in the moment.

Notable Exo Jig Moments

Here are some of the most memorable exo jigs in sports history:

• Stefon Diggs' original exo jig after a touchdown in 2017.
• The entire Philadelphia Eagles squad celebrating their Super Bowl win with a group exo jig.
• Stephen Curry hitting a three-pointer then seamlessly transitioning into the exo jig.
• Megan Rapinoe breaking out an exo jig with her teammates after winning the Women's World Cup.
• Tyreek Hill's extravagant exo jig with hip swivels after a long touchdown.

The exo jig will surely live on with new iconic moments added to its history every year. It has cemented its place among the great sports celebration moves.

Exo Jig Variations

While the original exo jig is a simple two-armed swinging dance, many athletes have put their own creative spins on it:

• The Double Jig - jigging with both arms simultaneously.
• The Side Jig - swinging one arm at a time to each side.
• The Quick Jig - speeding up the tempo into an intense jig.
• The Shimmy Jig - adding hip and shoulder shakes.
• The Twisty Jig - swinging arms while twisting the torso.

As long as athletes keep innovating, the exo jig will continue evolving with new styles and flavors. Each player can customize it to fit their personality while still recognizing it as an exo jig.

The Lasting Appeal of the Exo Jig

Years after first appearing, the exo jig remains a sports staple because it perfectly encapsulates the joy of victory. The jigging motion embodies the feeling of elation and excitement after a big play. Fans connect to that raw emotion.

It also represents fun self-expression for athletes. Stars have become more comfortable showing off their personalities, and the exo jig lets them do it in a lively, engaging way.

For these reasons, the exo jig will continue to thrive. It has become engrained in sports culture as the perfect celebratory move. No matter what form it takes, we can expect to keep seeing those exo jig arms swinging for years to come.

FAQs

Who invented the exo jig?

The exo jig is widely believed to have been invented by NFL wide receiver Stefon Diggs back in 2017.

What sports have adopted the exo jig?

The exo jig craze has spread to many sports including football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and more at both professional and youth levels.

Why do athletes love doing the exo jig?

Athletes enjoy the exo jig because it's an energetic celebration that rallies teammates and excites fans. It also allows creative self-expression.

What are some popular exo jig variations?

Some popular exo jig variations include the Double Jig, Side Jig, Quick Jig, Shimmy Jig, and Twisty Jig.

Why has the exo jig remained so popular?

The exo jig has staying power because it embodies the joy and excitement of victory that resonates with fans. It also allows athletes to show personality.