What is a jazz dance contraction?

A jazz dance contraction is a sudden and sharp movement that involves pulling the body inward. It is often used to create a sense of tension or release, and can be done with any part of the body. Contractions can be performed in a variety of ways, such as by pulling the arms in towards the chest, bending the knees, or hunching the shoulders. They can also be combined with other movements, such as turns, jumps, and kicks, to create complex and dynamic choreography.