How to do the 10 step line dance
53 Line Dancing Steps You Need to Know! – Country Dancing Tonight
The Slappin' Leather Line Dance
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The Slappin' Leather Line Dance
When you are a beginner and just starting to line dance the focus is really on taking a lesson and learning your first line dance and then over time adding a next one and a next one.
Naturally, it is best to first start with some beginner-level dances. I can’t remember the first line dance I learned, but I know that the Electric Slide was one of the first. Now my friends might laugh at me for not knowing it already or even finding it a challenge at first. But honestly, it was! I was just so new to line dancing or any kind of dancing to choreography so it was just a challenge.
But here’s the main point I want to make today and the good news! Over time as I stayed with it, I realized there’s a collection of basic steps that make up all the line dances!
Line dances utilize common steps, but just order them and combine them in different ways. This was an aha moment for me cause now as I got used to something like a “kick, ball change” when I heard that in the next lesson, I could say “well I know that part!”
So, basically, as you learn more line dances, you’ll become acquainted with more of the common steps that make up all line dances. This makes learning a whole new line dance go faster and faster, since, in a way you already know it! A new line dance is just a new original grouping and ordering of common steps to fit how a choreographer designs a dance.
But why wait to come across all these different steps?
Following are 53 of the common line dance steps that are found over and over again in line dances. Check out my list below! See the descriptions and watch some of the videos to reinforce your mastery of them. Then you’ll be even more prepared to take on the next line dance lesson, be it a beginner, intermediate, or even advanced level dance!
1.
Apple Jacks
2. Brush
3. Bump
4. Charleston
5. Chassé
6. Chug
7. Coaster Step
8. Cross
9. Cross Shuffle
10. Cross Walk
11. Fan
12. Flick
13. Grapevine
14. Heel Fan
15. Heel Grind
16. Heel Jack
17. Heel Split
18. Heel Strut
19. Hitch
20. Hold
21. Hook
22. Hop
23. Jazz Box
24. K-Step
25. Kick-Ball Change
26. Lock Step
27.
Lindy Step
28. Mambo Step
29. Monterey
30. Pivot Turn
31. Point
32. Rock Step
33. Rocking Chair
34. Rolling Vine
35. Sailor Step
36. Sailor Turn
37. Scissor Step
38. Shuffle
39. Side Rock
40. Side Shuffle
41. Side Together, Side Touch
42. Skate Step
43. Slide
44. Step
45. Step Turn
46. Stomp
47. Sweep
48. Swivel
49. Toe Strut
50. Triple Step
51.
Twinkle Step
52. Weave
53. Wizard Steps
After thinking about some of the most common line dance steps and many “need to knows,” I boiled it down to a list of 53!
I do want to credit D.S. Russell’s book “Pocket Guide to Line Dancing Terminology” for help in gathering all these. In their book, there are actually a total of 85 different line dance steps mentioned. In addition to this, there are interspersed throughout about 10 additional line dance terms with thorough definitions. So please do pick up this book to have as a handy guide! Super cheap too!
1. Apple Jacks
So, to begin with we have a pretty tricky and difficult step! So, much so that I’ve included a video here to help you through it. The step consists of taking a toe out to the side as the other heel comes into the instep.
This forms a “V.” Practice this by moving your right toe out to the right as the opposite heel also swivels to the right. Swivel opposite toe & heel to the left to go the other way.
https://youtu.be/LskS5V_KkwAVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: How To Do Applejacks (https://youtu.be/LskS5V_KkwA)
2. Brush
This is a very common and pretty easy step to add to your arsenal! It is just what you think! Just lift a foot and lightly kick, but brush the ball of your foot across the floor as you do so. This is also referred to as a “scuff.”
3. Bump
This another pretty easy and common step! It is also known as a “hip bump” because that what it’s all about. For a right hip bump, adjusting the weight to your right foot and then bump your hip out to the right, same thing for the left!
4. Charleston
To perform a Charleston Step, in line dance: bring your right foot forward and touch, and then touch back, then touch your left toe back and then step forward onto your left foot.
But here’s another video just to help out! Here Robert Royston demonstrates it but he also goes further to describe the Heel Swivel Charleston, the Lindy Charleston, and Side-By-Side Charlestons. These last 3 get pretty fancy!
https://youtu.be/dYZVpoF_xi0Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: How to Do the Charleston | Line Dancing (https://youtu.be/dYZVpoF_xi0)
5. Chassé
This is a triple-step but done to the side, so also known as a “Side-Shuffle.”
It is pronounced as “Shaw-Say.” The Chassé, Shuffle, Side-Shuffle, and Triple-Step are all Triple-Step line dance steps and have in common that they are 3 dance steps in 2 beats of music. This is counted as “One-&-Two, Three-&-Four”…etc. This is an important concept, see the video at the end of this post by Patti Leathers as she does a great job explaining this and how it is important in line dance.
To do a Chassé, you can think “side-together-side”… step right foot to the side, bring left foot next to the right foot, and then another right step out to the side.
(Same thing for going to the left). Just remember to move the 2nd step quickly on the “&” beat.
6. Chug
This is just lifting up one knee while hopping forward on the other leg. Obviously can be performed with either knee/leg. This is similar to the Hitch, but the Hitch doesn’t include the hop.
7. Coaster Step
(R) Step back (L) step back together with the right foot, (R) step forward. This is a triple step “One-&-Two” “back, together, forward” meaning you are dancing 3 steps in 2 beats of music (which is known as syncopation). This can be done with the left foot as well.
8. Cross
With the right or left foot, stepping in front and crossing the other foot.
Crossing Shuffle – this is the same thing, but then a shuffle step of both feet still ending with the L or R foot crossed and in front of the other foot.
Behind, Side Cross – this is when you step behind on foot (going either way). the R or L foot first steps behind the other foot then after the one step with the other foot the first foot steps across and in front
9. Cross Shuffle
Already just mentioned above! But also know just as a “Cross Shuffle.” But, to say it a little differently: like any shuffle or triple step, it is 3 steps to 2 beats of music and in this case is stepping in front of and crossing the other foot, a quick step with the other foot, and then the first cross-step repeated again. I’ve seen this done when the dance has you moving at a diagonal.
10. Cross Walk
This is a stylized walk forward also know as a “Prissy Walk.”
back to top11. Fan
There are “Heel Fans” (mentioned below) or “Toe Fans.”
For the Heel Fan, with the toe stationary, you just rotate or swivel the heel outward.
I imagine typically both will swivel out at the same time.
For the Toe Fan, with the heel stationary, you just rotate or swivel the toe outward. And, again I think it’s typical for both to swivel out at the same time.
12. Flick
A Flick is basically just kicking (or flicking) either foot backward. You would raise you foot and bend the knee.
13. Grapevine
Grapevines are a way to travel to the right or left using four counts
To do a grapevine to the right, start with weight on your left foot, step to your right with your right foot (1)
then left foot steps behind (2)
right foot steps to the side (3)
and bring your left foot back to just touch (4)
It’s common (like in the Electric Slide) then to do a 2nd grapevine back to your left. Having just touched your left foot, your weight is still on your right foot, a grapevine to the left is now just the opposite. Step to the side with your left, step behind with your right, step again to the left, and touch with your right.
A grapevine can alternatively be done with a brush (or scuff) as the 4th step instead of just the touch.
14. Heel Fan
As mentioned above under just “Fan” this is swiveling or rotating out your heel(s) with your toe(s) stationary.
15. Heel Grind
A Heel Grind is performed by putting your heel out in front and then with toe turned in a little turn toe out to the side.
back to top16. Heel Jack
A Heel Jack is just putting your heel out in front and tapping your heel on the ground. But the video below shows how it might typically fit in with other steps, in the case shown, a grapevine.
https://youtu.be/8U_sCBj0OpgVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Heel Jack (https://youtu.be/8U_sCBj0Opg)
17. Heel Split
With the weight on the balls of your feel swivel your heel out, away from each other and then swivel them back together!
18.
Heel StrutThis is very simple! A Heel Strut is basically walking, but you start with what is a Heel Jack; tapping your heel out in front of you, and then completing a step. Just looks like a more dramatic step and also takes up 2 beats of music to complete.
https://youtu.be/fQSEfZ3NmGkVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Linedance basic steps: Heel Strut (WB hun) (https://youtu.be/fQSEfZ3NmGk)
19. Hitch
Pulling your knee up (can happen after a walk forward or backward).
20. Hold
This is obviously the easiest “step” on this list. This just means “freeze” stop for a designated amount of beats in the music. Usually just one, but possibly more depending on the choreography of the line dance.
back to top21. Hook
A Hook step is bending the knee of one leg and then crossing it in the air in front of and just below the other knee. A common line dance where you’ll see this is Slappin’ Leather, with which you’ll often see people slap the side of their boots as they do this.
Also in Slappin’ Leather, you’ll notice you can hook in front of or behind the other leg. Notice Cindy in the video tapping her foot in both instances.
https://youtu.be/aFyOaX5Pr4gVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Slapping Leather (Line Dance) – Demo & Teach (https://youtu.be/aFyOaX5Pr4g)
22. Hop
This is what it sounds like: a tiny hop forward with one foot and then you’ll bring the other foot together with the first step. These are quick steps, so it would include a 1/2 beat as in “&-One.”
23. Jazz Box
A Jazz Box, also known as a Box Step is a way to basically make a box or a square with your steps.
You begin with crossing over your right foot in front of your left (first corner of the box)
Now step back a little with your left foot (2nd corner of the box)
Then return your right foot back next to your left foot (3rd corner of the box)
Lastly, cross over your left foot in front of your right foot (4th corner of the box).
This would be a Right Jazz Box, but to do a Left one, just start with the left foot crossing over the right.
https://youtu.be/aO0w30RmdQsVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Jazz Box – Right & Left (https://youtu.be/aO0w30RmdQs)
A good, quick demonstration of the basic Jazz Box.24. K-Step
The K-Step is a little like the Jazz Box, in that we’re sort of drawing something on the floor with our steps. In this case we draw a “K.” It is performed by stepping out at an angle with the right foot, then bringing the left foot to the right foot for a touch, then step back with the left foot, bring the right foot to the left foot, then step back with the right foot, again diagonally. Step touch the left foot again to the right foot and then return it. Below is a quick demonstration video of the K-Step.
https://youtu.be/i1rjIRnbgkUVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Line Dance Moves #17 – Learn the The K-Step (https://youtu.
be/i1rjIRnbgkU)
25. Kick-Ball Change
A Kick-Ball Change is super common in line dances and a good beginner step to be familiar with. It is performed by a low kick of the right foot forward, then return and step weight on the ball of the right foot. Then change weight back to the left foot.
So, hopefully, that’s clear! I remember when I first started line dancing I kept hearing the teachers shout out “Kick-Ball Change!” I had no idea what they were talking about! But it’s just a kick and then shifting your weight from the right ball of your foot back to the left.
back to top26. Lock Step
A Lock Step is like a shuffle step, but you step forward and step behind the first step. Then you stop your first foot out again. I’ve seen this done straight forward or at a diagonal, like in the line dance “Dirt On My Boots.
”
TIP: Don’t lock your foot too tightly behind the other, as you could cause your self to trip!
27. Lindy Step
A Lindy Step is a side shuffle step, but then with an added back cross rock step. Or also described as a Chassé with the added rock step. Below is a quick video demonstration of a Lindy Step. I’ve also added below a video of a line dance that incorporates a Lindy Step. This is a group of my friends that have been line dancing in a park lately.
https://youtu.be/SkbY7oMuuMkVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Lindy Step tutorial (4 counts) (https://youtu.be/SkbY7oMuuMk)
A quick demo of the Lindy Step.https://youtu.be/r5bYJmPKyh5Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Amarillo by morning (https://youtu.be/r5bYJmPKyh5)
Here’s a line dance that has a Lindy Step in it. Amarillo by Morning. That’s me in the front with the hat & black mask by the way! See if you can notice the Lindy Step!28.
Mambo StepCan be done 4 ways:
With weight on your left foot, (R) rock forward and back (the “and” is just returning weight to your left foot without moving it)
With weight on your right foot, (L) rock forward and back
With weight on your left foot, (R) rock back and forward
With weight on your right foot, (L) rock back and forward
You can also do the Mambo step to the side to the right or to the left & the different kinds of Mambo steps at times are combined together.
29. Monterey
The Monterey Step is a series of point & step moves with a 1/4 or 1/2 turn thrown in. Think point, turn (or spin), point, step together. Here’s a slower breakdown:
1. Point the toe of your right foot to the right side
2. As you pull your right foot back to the left foot, pivot 1/4 turn or 1/2 turn (spin) on the ball of your left foot and step down on your right foot, next to left foot.
3.
Point toe of your left foot to the left side
4. Pull left foot in and step next to right foot (together)*
*Thanks DS Russel for your “Pocket Guide to Line Dance Terminology, A Guide for Beginners”
The below video and other videos seem to just demonstrate this with a 1/4 turn, I tried doing it with a 1/2 turn, (more of spin) and its possible, you just need to really crank and get that momentum going a little stronger.
https://youtu.be/JkHKtlTutKYVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Learning Line Dance Steps – The Monterey (https://youtu.be/JkHKtlTutKY)
30. Pivot Turn
A Pivot Turn can be a 1/4 turn or 1/2 turn, even occasionally a 3/4 turn.
1. Step forward and with weight on the balls of both feet…
2. Keeping both feet on the floor, and using the ball of the forward foot as a “pusher,” pivot 1/2 or 1/4 shifting your weight onto the other foot.
The interesting thing to note about this is that whichever foot takes the forward step to begin this there is only one direction you can turn and still keep both feet on the ground! If you step forward first on your right foot, you can only pivot to the left.
If with the left, you can only pivot to the right. Try it! You’ll see this is actually a very simple and natural move and easy to do when part of a line dance.
31. Point
This is an easy one! Just touch the toe of one foot out to the side, but don’t put weight on it, just touch the toe to the floor. Obviously, there’s pointing a toe to the right or to the left.
32. Rock Step
A Rock Step is just stepping forward (R or L) and then shifting weight back to the other foot. This gives you a rocking chair feeling.
33. Rocking Chair
This is really just two Rock Steps combined to fully give you that rocking chair feeling! But the second one is a step back and then recovering forward. See Gail Eaton’s video below at 13:00 for a good explanation and demonstration of it.
34. Rolling Vine
A Rolling Vine is just a Grapevine, but you add a spin while you’re doing the Vine.
You basically add two 1/2 turns while you’re doing the grapevine.
Here’s a good clear break down of the steps to roll right:
1. Step right foot to right side with toes pointing to the right turning you 1/4 turn to the right.
2. Step left foot forward with the toes to the left foot pointing to the back wall (when you pick up your right foot you should now be facing the back wall).
3. Continuing to turn to the right, step back on the right foot, making a final 1/2 turn to bring your body back to the starting wall.
This can be done the same way to the left.
https://youtu.be/3JpSfIhhSW4Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Rolling Vine or Rolling grape Vine (https://youtu.be/3JpSfIhhSW4)
Here’s a good demonstration of the Rolling Vine (also known as a Rolling Grapevine).35. Sailor Step
A Sailor Step is a 3 count combo of steps that consists of a backward cross step (like the 2nd part of a weave), and then two more steps: just the first, stepping out, and then the other also steps out to sort of untangle the first cross (an “out-out”).
When performed there is a drunken stagger feel to it, hence the name “sailor” like a drunken sailor! I think there’s an excellent example of this fitting a song with the “I’m getting drunk on a plane” line dance. Also, see Gail Eaton’s video below at 41:00 for a great demonstration of Sailor Steps.
back to top36. Sailor Turn
A Sailor Turn is the Sailor Step mentioned above, but now add a 1/4 turn to it. You do the 1/4 turn part as you finish or on the “out-out” part. The video below covers all Sailor Steps, but see 2:27 in the video for the Turning Sailor Step (or Sailor Turn). Kari does a great job breaking down all things Sailor Step and makes it pretty easy!
https://youtu.be/5h3zyUwdV3MVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Sailor Steps & Turning Sailor Steps – How To Do Sailors – Line Dance (https://youtu.be/5h3zyUwdV3M)
37.
Scissor StepThis involves another cross. First with either foot rock step to the side, recover and then step in front & across the other foot.
38. Shuffle
The Shuffle step is also known as a “Triple Step” or “Chassé.” So, as you come across those in my list you’ll see the same instruction! This is just 3 steps, but the key is that it is done with syncopation. That is, the 2nd step is taken quickly on the “and” beat or 1/2 beat. What this means is that it is 3 steps in 2 counts of music. “One-&-Two, Three-&-Four, Five-&-Six, Seven-&Eight”
I’ve included a few videos at the very end from good instructors out there which go over some of these basic steps. See the 2nd one for the shuffle. Patti Leathers goes over 10 steps and the Shuffle is the first one she covers!
39. Side Rock
Side Rock – A Side Rock Step is really the same as a Rock Step, but you just step to the side and shift weight back to the other foot.
So, again it gives you that rocking chair feeling, but you’re just rocking sideways.
40. Side Shuffle
A Side Shuffle is another triple step. (3 steps in two beats of music). Step right foot to the right, then quickly bring the left foot next to the right foot and step the right foot to the right again. This is the same for either right of left.
back to top41. Side Together, Side Touch
This similar to a Grapevine in that it is a way to travel to the left or right in 4 counts. It’s done alternatively to the Grapevine because it’s just easier. Instead of stepping behind on the 2nd count, you just follow for another sidestep bringing both feet together. Then a 2nd side step (left or right foot depending on which way your’e traveling) and then touch.
42. Skate Step
A Skate Step or Skater’s Step is just a step (R or L) diagonally to resemble the movement a skater makes.
43. Slide
A Slide is just a side step, lighter dragging or sliding your foot out to the side and then bringing your other foot to join it, but not transferring your weight on it (until, perhaps the choreography says so!).
44. Step
Place foot on the floor and shift weight to it. (Most obvious and easy thing in line dancing!)
45. Step Turn
The Step Turn is really the same thing as a Pivot Turn, so scroll back up or click here to see the instructions for it.
back to top46. Stomp
Just what it sounds like! A Stomp is one step and uses just one beat. Just stomp your foot down in place. Generally, letting your heel hit first is the loudest and most satisfying way to do it.
But here’s a step that you might just want to be careful with since it might not be great for your knee! And if your dancing on a hard floor that doesn’t have much give to it, especially be careful.
You can always just step down lightly while everyone else stomps noisily.
47. Sweep
A Sweep is performed by your foot tracing a semi-circular pattern on the floor as you cross it in front of (or behind) the other foot.
48. Swivel
A Swivel seems like a cousin of Apple Jacks to me, but easier to do! With the weight on the ball of both feet, swing out your heels (in either direction). Then lean back on your heels to sing out your toes (in either direction). Then shift your weight back to the balls of your feet. You can use Swivels to move across the floor if the dance calls for it.
49. Toe Strut
A Toe Strut is just digging you toe into the floor and then without lifting your toe, dropping you foot onto the floor.
50. Triple Step
As mentioned in several places throughout this list a Triple Step is three steps in two beats of the music. Also known as Shuffle Step.
A step and then a 2nd quick step before the third step (“One-&-Two, Three-&-Four, etc.).
51. Twinkle Step
As we get to the end of the list here, there’s been a lot of simple steps mentioned, but not the Twinkle Step! The Twinkle Step is 3 counts and it used when the beat of the music calls for a Waltz tempo.
1. Cross your left foot over the right and put your weight on it.
2. Step right foot the right side.
3. Step left foot next to right foot.
In the video below the instructor refers to it as a 6 count step. I think it is just because she is doing two sequences on the pattern, first to the left, then to the right.
https://youtu.be/-wCHKq_yI0IVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Twinkle Step – Line Dance Step Instructions (https://youtu.be/-wCHKq_yI0I)
52. Weave
This is a 4 count combo of steps and is accomplished by first crossing over one foot in front of the other (1) side step away from the crossed over step (2) crossing over the first foot again by behind this time (3), then the other foot stepping to the side (4)
53.
Wizard StepsWizard Steps are really just Lock Steps, but putting two together of alternating directions starting with R or L foot crossing behind and then the other will step behind the opposite (for help with this and a good demonstration see 44:00 in the Gail Eaton Video below).
back to topSome Great YouTube Video Lessons of Some Important Line Dance Steps
In conclusion, I’ve included some of the YouTube videos I found that don’t focus on any specific line dance, but just teach you the names of so steps and how to do them. These are from some popular teachers out there, but it’s great to just have the steps broken down!
Gail Eaton’s video below gives a great demonstration of a lot of these steps. Watch this and follow her. Gail goes beyond just teaching some steps,but then combines some of them together which really is the essence or secret of line dancing! Line dance choreography is just the combining of steps that often we may already know!
It cracked my up how she said that usually at a line dance lesson “the steps are taught first.
” Well, I never experienced that really. Seems like, at least at the bars, you are just thrown into learning the line dances themselves. Well, at least there’s these videos.
https://youtu.be/nHUpmmHRZr8Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Linedance Steps, Video contains 47 common steps used to create a scripted Dance (https://youtu.be/nHUpmmHRZr8)
Next are a couple of Patti Leather’s videos where she goes over some basic line dancing steps. The first one covers the concept of triples really well along with Coasters and Sailors. Then the second one goes through 10 common line dance steps.
These are just really clear and helpful lessons especially if you are a beginner at line dance. I love how she says to start shuffling around your house and to always have music on!
https://youtu.be/M_6YIP38MSIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Basic Steps: Triples (shuffles), Coasters, Sailors (https://youtu.be/M_6YIP38MSI)
https://youtu.
be/BOyITcqCrLIVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Top Ten Steps Part 1 (https://youtu.be/BOyITcqCrLI)
So, further in conclusion, I hope this list is great help as a quickly scannable list of some of the main line dance steps out there that probably thousands of line dance choreography used and mixes up to create their dances. Learn some or all of these steps and you’ll be very prepared for any line dance lesson.
back to top8 Easy Line Dances for Seniors
We often get asked “What are some easy line dances for seniors?”
So I thought I would highlight 8 dances, starting with a complete beginners line dance, and gradually building up in complexity.
This will quickly help improve your knowledge of moves found in modern line dances. You will also get to learn a dance for free.
First, a bit about line dancing songs and choreography
Each line dance is choreographed to a specific song, incorporating a string of moves that become the dance routine.
This fundamental routine is then danced facing all 4 walls (sometimes less) of a room.
In other words you dance the whole choreography facing the instructor in front of you, and then on completion of the routine you end up facing left wall and complete the routine before turning to the back wall (in this case) and continue doing it around the room ’til the song stops.
Easy Line Dances for Seniors – and everyone else.
The following are not just for seniors but they are evergreen and great for anyone starting out.
I have chosen these dances as they can all be found on one DVD.
If you would like to learn all these dances you can find them on Vol 1 of Liz Collett’s very popular Line dancing DVD for seniors series.
- Elvira
- Houston Hustle
- Boot Scootin’ Boogie
- Stray Cat Strut
- Slap Leather / Slappin’ Leather
- One Good Reason
- Woolshed Waltz
- Cowboy Cha Cha
NOTE: Many line dances have different versions of choreography so I will be referring to the version that I am familiar with.
1 – Elvira
Elvira helps you get the basics of a vine (grape vine) and a hitch as well as a sense of rhythm and timing.
The story I like to tell is that when I started as a complete line dance beginner around 1992 when everyone wanted to learn “Achy Breaky Heart” line dance, I first learned a dance similar to Elvira.
My girlfriend at the time was a natural dancer but I certainly wasn’t, and after learning the second line dance I said to her it was easier than the first. She looked at me and said it was actually harder, but you are just starting to “click in”, so it seems easier.
Point is, if you find it hard in the beginning – stick with it as it gets easier and is great fun plus you get to meet a lot of great people – and maybe even lose a few pounds.
Choreographer
Unknown
Counts per routine / wall:
24
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance
Song originally Choreographed to
“Elvira” by the Oak Ridge Boys.
Stepsheet
2 – Houston Hustle
Houston Hustle is a faster dance that introduces some fancier foot work including fans and stomps enhancing the steps you have already learned.
Choreographer
Chuck Rademacher
Counts per routine / wall:
32
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance
Song originally Choreographed to
“You’re Right, I’m Wrong” by George Strait
StepSheet
3 – Boot Scootin’ Boogie
A perennial favorite with all line dancers. Not only is it choreographed to a great song but the choreography is simple but challenging for all levels.
Choreographer
Bill Bader
Counts per routine / wall:
32
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance
Song originally Choreographed to
“Boot Scootin’ Boogie” by Brooks & Dunn
StepSheet
Dance along and Learn Boot Scootin’ Boogie by following Liz’s simple instructions in the video below.
This is an example of her easy to follow teaching style.
Check out Liz’s DVDs
4 – Stray Cat Strut
A slower dance with a great “strut” that gets to your soul.
Choreographer
Unknown
Counts per routine / wall:
32
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance
Song originally Choreographed to
“Stray Cat Strut” by The Stray Cats
StepSheet
5 – Slap Leather (Slappin’ Leather)
Lets speed things up a bit with this popular line dance. Once you get this in your head you will be able to dance it to many other songs with a similar feel and speed.
Choreographer
Unknown
Counts per routine / wall:
42
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance
Song originally Choreographed to
“T-R-O-U-B-L-E” by Travis Tritt
StepSheet
6 – One Good Reason
I really enjoy this dance, mainly because I love the song by Ricky Van Shelton. It is slow and smooth, but happy, and you will just glide as you listen to the lyrics.
Don’t get too taken away by the song as I know people (very close to me) who can easily forget what step they are up to in the dance!
Choreographer
Su Marshall
Counts per routine / wall:
32
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance
Song originally Choreographed to
Unsure
Maybe “Give Me One Good Reason” by Shanley Del
but I learned it to “If they Turn Out The Lights” by Ricky Van Shelton
StepSheet
7 – Woolshed Waltz
Everyone loves a line dance waltz and I also love the Colin Raye song.
Waltzes have a very different feel to all the other dances being 3 / 4 timing so you count it as
1-2-3 | 1-2-3 | 1-2-3 | 1-2-3 |
instead of the more typical
1-2-3-4 | 1-2-3-4 | 1-2-3-4 | 1-2-3-4 | count.
This is a beautiful style of dance.
If you would like to learn how to count in Line Dances check out these articles.
How To Count In Country Line Dances – Part 1
How To Count In Country Line Dances – Part 2 (waltz time)
Choreographer
Kath MacManamon
Counts per routine / wall:
36
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance Waltz
Song originally Choreographed to
“The Dance” by Anne Kirkpatrick
Alternate “Dreaming My Dreams with You” by Collin Raye
StepSheet
8 – Cowboy Cha Cha
Brooks and Dunn are one of the most famous Nashville Duo’s / bands with a huge string of hits. I learned Neon Moon on guitar so it has a special place for me.
Cha Cha is a specific step that has a specific rhythm – slow, slow, quick, quick, quick where the 3 x quicks takes up the same space of time as the the 2 x slow counts. This will make more sense after learning this dance.
Choreographer
Unsure but most probably Kelly Gellette & Michelle Stremche
Counts per routine / wall:
20
4 Wall Beginner Line Dance Cha Cha
Song originally Choreographed to
“Neon Moon” by Brooks & Dunn
StepSheet
I sincerely hope you got some inspiration to take up line dancing for both fun and exercise.
Check out the Line dancing dvd for seniors below to learn these dances and get a good head start.
Pas de valse
Name:
Pas (French) - step
Valse (French) - waltz
Pas de valse (Pas de waltz, Pa waltz) - waltz steps, waltz step
Waltz Pa is a dance element consisting of 3 steps: two passing forward steps and a prefix (step-step-prefix).
Music
Time signature 3/4.
Slow or moderate pace.
The waltz pa takes 1 measure.
Score: I-1-I-2-I-3
Preparatory exercises
- Bringing the leg to the toe - battement tendu (buttman tandyu) 3 positions in a cross one at a time (right foot and left foot).
- Rise on the half-toes (relevé - relevé) in 3 positions.
- Dance step
Waltz Pa
Starting position:
The dancers stand in a circle, facing along the dance line.
Legs - in 3rd position (right leg in front)
Arms - in ball position (slightly away from the body).
1 measure - Waltz pas forward along the line of dance from the right foot.
| Account | Movement description |
| Start (I) | Bring the right leg, straightened at the knee, forward to the toe (in 4 pos.) - battement tendu - battman tandyu with the right foot forward. Slightly soften the knee of the supporting left leg. |
| 1 | Sliding step with the right foot forward along the line of dance from the toe to the entire foot. Shift your weight onto your right leg. Slightly soften the knee of the right leg. The left leg remains behind on the toe (in 4 pos.). |
| and | The left leg, also softened at the knee, is held next to the right leg through 1 pos. (the heel of the left foot next to the heel of the right foot) and is brought forward to the toe (in 4 pos.). |
| 2 | A small step with the left foot forward along the line of dance on low toes. Shift your weight onto your left leg. The right leg remains behind on the toe. |
| and | With a sliding motion, pull up the right leg with the toe on the floor and put it on the toes in 3 pos. behind the left leg. (Weight is on two legs.) |
| 3 | Get down on full feet in 3 poses. (left leg in front). Shift your weight onto your right leg. |
2 measure – Waltz pas forward along the line of dance from the left foot.
Performed in the same way.
Waltz pa paired with half turns
Starting position:
The dancers stand in a circle, facing each other (the boy - with his back to the center, the girl - facing the center.
Legs - in 3 positions: the boy has his left leg in front, the girl has the right leg in front
The hands are connected in 2 positions, the connection is "boat", "by the fingers" (The girl's fingers lie on the boy's fingers.
Partners hold each other's fingers with their thumbs. Elbows are rounded.)
1 measure – Waltz pas with a turn of the face along the line of dance.
The first step for both partners is turning - a step to the side, with a turn of 90 degrees. (face along the line of dance). The second and third steps are forward along the line of dance.
The boy performs the Pa waltz from the left foot with a turn on the first step to the left by 90 degrees.
A girl performs a Pa waltz with her right foot, turning 90 degrees to the right on the first step.
The left hand of the boy and the right hand of the girl are separated and moved to the sides (in 2nd position).
The connected right hand of the boy and the left hand of the girl pass through the bottom and are brought forward, at the level of 1 position.
Ending: partners stand facing along the line of dance (the girl is to the right of the boy).
The right hand of the boy and the left hand of the girl are connected at the level of the 1st position.
Free hands - in 2 positions.
2 measure – Waltz Pa with facing each other.
The first step for both partners is turning - a step forward, with a turn of 90 degrees. (facing each other). The second and third steps are to the side.
A boy performs the Pa waltz with his right foot, turning 90 degrees to the right on the first step.
A girl performs a Pa waltz with her left foot, turning 90 degrees to the left on the first step.
The left hand of the boy and the right hand of the girl join again in 2 positions.
Ending: partners stand in the starting position.
Literature
- Ballroom dancing. Sarikojumu dejas. Lasman Milda. Publishing house Latvias Valsts Izdevnieciba, Riga (Riga), 1954
- "Dance ". Textbook for theatrical universities (on stage dance). Vasilyeva E.D. M., Art, 1968
Video for the dance element "Waltz Pa"
Waltz Pa with half-turns is demonstrated by the leaders of the dance club "Phoenix" DKiT im.
I.I. Gaza - PAVLOV V.G. (z.r.k. RF, President of MAUT, Fellow and Examiner of IDTA) and LEVITSKAYA E.A. (Fellow IDTA).
Video recording made at seminars for leaders of amateur ballroom dance groups in DNTiD St. Petersburg, 2009– 2010 academic year.
Dance - Viennese Waltz
Dance - Viennese Waltz| HOUSE | MENU | DOKI | SEARCH |
Culture › Dance › European ›
see Recommended literature on dance. Designations and abbreviations
One of the most beautiful and romantic dances, included in Western European ballroom dancing program . Muses. size 3/4, rate 56-60 t/min. (168-180 bpm). In the 19th century gained popularity throughout Europe.
(See Waltz).
Although the British prefer the romantic name for this dance, the Viennese waltz, it is also called the quick waltz. Despite its venerable age, the waltz has retained its appeal and always has ardent fans. The name "Viennese waltz" is conditional. Waltz was not born in Vienna during the time of Johann Strauss, but in Italy during the Renaissance, where it was called "volta". From the Apennine Peninsula, the volta migrated to France, and its success at the French court was stunning. All the courtiers enthusiastically danced Volta. However, soon Louis XIII came to the French throne, who was shocked by the style of the new dance and vetoed it.
Banned in France, the volta crosses borders, travels across Europe and eventually becomes a waltz. The dance gets rid of some movements and takes on the form that is known today. The waltz returned to France only in the 19th century and again had the same noisy success as the volta had in its time.
The creators of the charming melodies of the waltz were the father and son Strauss, Lehar, Waldteuffel, as well as other great composers, including Schubert, Chopin, Berlioz, Tchaikovsky, Sibelius, Weber, Ravel.
Although waltz was a huge success and made a splash in many European courts, at the beginning of the 19th century. the official attitude towards the waltz was very cautious. At balls in Vienna itself, it was allowed to dance the waltz for no more than 10 minutes - the hugs of the gentleman and the lady in the dance were considered inappropriate. But no prohibitions could stop the waltz from spinning around the ballrooms and concert halls of Europe. Since 1815, after the victory over Napoleon in Vienna, waltzes were selflessly danced at all balls - enchanting, magical, brilliant.
Vienna went down in history as the city where the waltz flourished. Viennese composers and conductors Lanner, Johann Strauss-father and even more famous Johann Strauss -son, who wrote the masterpieces "On the Beautiful Blue Danube" and "Tales of the Vienna Woods", contributed to the formation of the Viennese waltz, as well as to the fact that in the 19th century.
this dance eclipsed all others. Strauss's music ennobled and perfected the choreography of waltz . Thanks to her, the dance began to be performed more gracefully, more beautifully and reverently.
A monument to Johann Strauss stands in the Vienna City Garden. Not far from it is a small stage, where Strauss himself once performed with his chapel. And today, every summer evening, waltz melodies are heard from this stage, to the sounds of which the public of the city garden dances. And only when the turn of the waltz “On the beautiful blue Danube” comes, the conductor asks not to dance: it is believed that this melody, which has become an Austrian national shrine, should only be listened to reverently...
Waltz, having become an official ballroom dance, was in perfect harmony with the then fashion: dresses narrow at the waist with luxurious puffy skirts emphasized the beauty of the lady's movements.
Viennese waltz is structurally simple.
But his constantly alternating, swift right and left rotations require coherence and grace from the pair. Competitive Viennese waltz (on the 6th position) requires a significant progressive movement, has its own characteristics in technique execution of steps and movement of the body.
The well-known version of the Viennese waltz in the 3rd position preserves the traditions of ballroom dancing in the 19th century. and is an integral part of figured waltz, waltz-mazurka, waltz-gavotte and other dances.
Dance technique Viennese Waltz for beginners
Now the waltz is back in fashion: it is danced at gala and dance parties. In all European capitals, a tradition has been established: the first ball is a white dress, a tuxedo and a waltz.
Size: 3/4.
Tempo: 60 bars or 180 beats per minute; three beats per measure with emphasis on the first beat. Basic rhythm: step for every quarter. Position: Identical to that of quickstep, slow foxtrot and English waltz.
Note: If you feel dizzy due to continuous rotation to the right or left, take several steps with pauses: for “one” - step with your right foot forward; on "two" - bring the left foot to the right; on "three" - slightly move it forward. On the “one” of the next measure, step forward with the left foot, transferring the weight of the body to it, and so on, repeating the movements of the first measure, but from the other foot.
Right turn
The movement is used most often and is performed for 2 measures.
For Partner:
Starts and ends face movement along the line of dance.
1. Step right foot forward, turning to the right.
2. Large step with the left foot to the side, continuing the turn.
Fig. Right turn in the Viennese waltz. Pa partner and partner
3. Put the right foot to the left, with the back along the line of dance.
4.
Step back with the left foot, turning to the right.
5. Small step with the right foot to the side to the right of the left foot.
6. Put the left foot to the right foot.
Start again from point 1.
For Partner:
Performs opposite steps. Starts with the left foot and dances steps 4, 5, 6, and then - 1, 2, 3.
Experienced dancers on 5, 6 perform a pivot on the left foot, and put the right foot to the left without transferring body weight. MPC by 1, 4. Rise at the end 1. Up by 2, 3. Decrease at the end 3. Rise at the end 4, up by 5, 6. Decrease at the end 6. Tilt to the right by 2, 3, to the left - by 5, 6.
Advanced Viennese Waltz Dance Technique
1. Left turn
This figure is successfully combined with the right turn. The left turn is an excellent remedy for those who experience dizziness while performing the right turns of the waltz, as it gives the opportunity to interrupt the rotation by making a change forward and go to the reverse turns.
The movement begins and ends along the line of dance.
For Partner:
1. Step with the left foot forward with a turn to the left (count "times").
2. A small step with the right foot to the side to the right and slightly back, continuing to turn (two count).
3. Cross the left leg in front of the right leg (cross), back along the line of dance (count "three").
4. Step with the right foot back with a turn to the left (count "times").
5. 6. Put the left foot to the right, without transferring the weight of the body to it, and perform a turn on the ball of the right foot (toe pivot), assuming a position facing along the line of dance (count "two", "three").
For Partner:
Performs opposite steps. Begins movement with the right foot and performs first points 4, 5, 6, and then points 1, 2, 3.
MPC by 1, 4. Rise at the end 1, up by 2, 3. Decrease at the end 3. Rise at the end 4, up by 5, 6.
Decrease at the end 6. Tilt to the left at the partner, to the right - at the partner by 2 , 3, by 5, 6 - vice versa.
2. Lace
This figure has 12 beats (4 measures). It consists of:
1) half turn to the right - 1 beat;
2) two cross steps - 2 measures;
3) half-turn to the right - 1 cycle.
For Partner:
Starts and ends face movement along the line of dance.
1. Step forward with the right foot, turning the body to the right (counting “times”).
2. Step left foot to the side to the left with the back along the line of dance (two count).
3. Put the right foot to the left back along the line of dance (count "three").
These three movements make up the first half of the right turn.
4. Step with the left foot back along the line of dance (count "times").
5. Cross the right leg in front of the left leg - cross (count "two").
6. Step with the left foot back along the line of dance (count "three").
7. Step with the right foot back along the line of dance (count "times").
8. Cross the left leg in front of the right leg - cross (count "two").
9. Step with the right foot back along the line of dance (count "three").
10. Step back with the left foot, turning the body to the right (counting "times").
11. Step with the right foot to the side to the right, facing along the line of dance (two count).
12. Put the left foot to the right (count "three").
Fig. Left Turn Viennese Waltz
Movements n. 10-12 - the second half of the right turn.
For Partner:
Performs opposite steps, but instead of crossing backwards, performs two forward lock-step movements: one to the right, the other to the left. In this figure, the partner moves forward along the line of dance, and the partner moves back.
Links and variations
1. Consisting of 4 strokes:
Right turn - front change from the right foot, then from the left foot. Repeat.
Left turn - front change from the left foot, then from the right foot. Repeat.
2. Consisting of 6 bars:
Right turn - forward change from the right foot - left turn - forward change from the left foot. Repeat.
3. Consisting of 10 measures:
Two right turns - forward change from the right foot - two left turns - forward change from the left foot. Repeat.
4. Consisting of 12 bars:
Turn right - lace - two turns to the right - front change from the right foot, then from the left foot. Repeat.
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