How to two step slow dance

Learning the Basic Country Two-Step Dance – Country Dancing Tonight

The Slappin' Leather Line Dance

Please enable JavaScript

The Slappin' Leather Line Dance

I started country dancing about 3 years ago and was able to learn how to do the basic Two-Step country dance after a few private lessons. Looking back I realized it wasn’t as hard as I thought and since then have shown many people the basics to get them going and remove some of the mystery about it.

If you are going out for the evening to a country bar to do some dancing, there will most likely be lots of line dancing interspersed with couples partner dancing. Far and away the most popular partner dancing in the United States is the two-step. Drawing from what I’ve learned, this post will give you the basics to prepare you to be ready when you venture out to your local country bar or dance club.

Basic Positions for the Two-Step

In country two-step there is a leader and follower.
Leader: facing your partner, place your right hand under your follower’s left arm and on their shoulder blade.
Follower: facing your partner, place your left hand on your leader’s shoulder seam.
Both: Join your free hands on the other side and hold up and out at about shoulder height.

This is the basic country two-step “closed” position

Notes:
1. After creating this closed position, the leader should position their feet to the left slightly so your toes aren’t pointing directly at each other, but offset slightly. This way you’re less likely to bang your feet together while dancing.

2. It’s important for the follower to lean back slightly into their leader’s right hand and also to put a little pressure with both their left hand (on the leader’s shoulder seam) and with their right clasped hand.
The idea is to keep a fixed amount of space between each other and with this pressure, the lead can push and pull their partner easily. This is known as a good “dance-frame.”

Understanding the Basic Steps for the Two-Step

Two-step dancing consists of two “quick” steps and then two “slow” steps. Knowing when to do these steps is about finding the bass beat of the music being danced to. To get comfortable finding this beat listen to your favorite country songs with this intent. You’ll notice a main beat that you naturally can tap your hand or foot to. In music there is also the “&” beat in-between each basic beat. 1-&-2-&-3-&-4. The Quicksteps are quick because the second one happens on one of these “&” beats. Then you pause or stop for the next “&” and step on the 2nd main beat. This stepping on the “&” beat sometimes and skipping to step on the main beat creates the quick-quick, slow-slow that country two-step is known for.

In this diagram the “bouncing ball” represents steps to either the main beat or 1/2 beat of the music. The wait in between the steps or timing is the key.

For me, as a lead this was the hardest and most intimidating part to getting into country Two-Step. I would ask a lady to dance we would go out onto the floor, assume the correct dance frame and then with other dancers already going I would freeze! I couldn’t hear the beat! I couldn’t start! Honestly, there was no immediate fix to this. It just took some time getting used to hearing and feeling that beat almost subconsciously and naturally so that now I can begin right away.
Tip: I did learn to listen for that beat even before asking someone to dance! This way I was almost already dancing before we started!

Beginning the Two-Step Dance

So, as the lead, there is no absolute beat to start on (like there is with line dancing). You just pick a beat and begin. As the leader, you do signal your partner that you are beginning by leaning in and pushing.
The lead begins with their left foot and consequently, the follower steps backward with their right foot.
Then the 2nd (quick) step is taken by your right foot and the follower steps back with their left.
Then you pause for the “&” and step on the main beat, with your left again, followed by a 2nd “slow” step on your right after skipping another “&” beat.
The diagram above illustrates this.

Line of Dance for Two-Step and Partner Dancing

When you go to any country bar to see partner dancing or any ballroom for that matter you will notice that the direction of traffic on the dance floor is always moving counter-clockwise. This is a big part of dance floor etiquette and is very important!
Notes:
Along with the counter-clockwise line of dance, generally it is understood that the outer lanes are going to be used by the more experienced dancers and (unlike a freeway) is the “fast-lane.” The inside lanes of the dance floor are meant for the slower or beginner dancers. And the more toward the middle of the floor the more it is free of traffic. Occasionally there is a really great couple that wants to do some fancy tricks right in the middle open area—so just keep your head up and watch out! It is also pretty common for country bars to allow for line dancing to a given song to happen in the middle while the Two-Step dancers go around them.The Two-Step is known as a “Progressive” or “Traveling” dance and is always danced in a counter-clockwise direction around any dance floor. This graphic illustrates this as well as where to dance as a beginner dancer (inside lane) or more advanced dancer (outside lane).

Two-Step Dancing Leader & Follower Roles

Leader: As a leader, it is your job on the dance floor to watch and steer your partner safely around the dance floor. After getting a good grasp on the basic two-step, a good next level is to turn your partner and lead backward. However, this doesn’t switch the responsibly to the follower to watch out. The leader now must look over their shoulder and see the traffic and continue to steer the two of you safely around the dance floor.
But of course, if the follower sees a collision about to happen they can try to give a heads up! But its really not their job. The leader is to be aware of the space and try to see all the dancers around.

Follower: As the follower, it is important to help maintain that pressure between you and your leader. This is how you will know what they’re doing. If you are getting your feet stepped on by your lead you may be collapsing in and not keeping that pressure.

Different Styles of Two-Step Dancing

While the timing for the Two-Step is agreed on universally, there are some differing thoughts about style. This observation of style has to do with timing and is really a discussion for the leader. The main one I’ve heard is how big your steps should be and if your speed is constant or variant. It stands to reason that maybe for a “quick” step you can’t step as far, but for a “slow” step you can take a bigger longer step. But some would say, no, just take longer to make the step! So, all steps are the same distance. I’ve also heard when you do the quick step it should be as if someone “pushes you from behind” hence you’re speeding up at that moment, to then slow down at the “slow-slow.” I don’t think it matters much! The main thing is that as the leader, whatever style feels right for you, you are a good lead and your follow can feel it and pick it up.

Two-Step Dance Routines

The Basic dance frame “closed” position, the steps, timing, how to start and understanding the leader and follower roles is all you need to get out on the dance floor and begin! At this point, you are ready to go out dancing and move around the dance floor – in a counter-clockwise direction!

This all provides the foundation for Two-Step and can be built upon throughout years of dancing enjoyment. The following are a few added dance moves and routines to add to your growing repertoire.

180º Turn – This is a simple turn of the both of you initiated by the lead. The turn is accomplished by the lead using the first slow to move his partner to the right out of the “track” and then completing the full turn of both partners on the second slow. Then the next quick-quick is the lead walking backward, pulling the follower who is now walking forward.

Outside Turn – Possibly more common than turning around might be just turning or spinning the follower. This is accomplished by a small “prep” or signal to the follower with the left hand and turning them around by pulling their hand away from you so they turn clockwise. They will follow their right shoulder. As they come around the leader will reposition their right hand back under the shoulder blade.

Sweetheart Position – This not necessarily a dance move, but another way to progress around the dance floor beside the “closed position.” When in “closed position” the leader just pulls the follower in for a 1/2 inside turn switching hands. Both partners look forward, both holding right hands in front and left hands held above the follower’s shoulder. The Sweetheart Position gives the follower a nice break from always traveling backward.
Extra: Once you have this down, try moving to it while the leader is traveling backwards! This forces the lead to be the one turning to walk forward.

Two-Step Dancing Tutorials

This post obviously isn’t intended to turn you into a world-class Two-Stepper overnight! There are many other intermediate and after that advanced routines or patterns to learn! The ones explained above will be a great start and allow you to blend in pretty well with a typical night of Two-Stepping at your local country bar. Below are some great video tutorials showing some of the basics covered above. These videos also add additional tips and will take you farther. Enjoy!

https://youtu.be/xoscqzFdwB0Video can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: How to Do the 2-Step | Line Dancing (https://youtu.be/xoscqzFdwB0)

To begin with, this brief tutorial from Robert Royston, a 5-time country dance world champion goes over the basics!

https://youtu.be/2NPdOQyqCkcVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: HOW TO DANCE TWO STEP – Country Two Step Dancing For Dummies (https://youtu. be/2NPdOQyqCkc)

In this tutorial Anthony and Rose of Country Dance X seek to settle the debate of how to dance the Two-Step once and for all and take a look cause they are legit dance pros!

https://youtu.be/4-2MHaNny8gVideo can’t be loaded because JavaScript is disabled: Beginner Country Two Step Dance Tutorial | Basic Two Step Patterns (https://youtu.be/4-2MHaNny8g)

Lastly, here is a more lengthy and equally reliable tutorial from another equally qualified couple going through several patterns for the Two-Step.

Two Step Dance | Learn the Basics of Country Two Step

Every beginner country dancer needs to learn the basic patterns for country two step. If you want to learn how to country two step, also called progressive two-step, you’re in the right place. Two step is a fun dance that travels around the line of dance with walks and spins to fast country music. First, we need to master the basic steps. Below is a simple syllabus to get you started on the basic two step patterns as a beginner.

TAKE ACTION> Download our Basics of 2-Step Video for FREE

TAKE ACTION> Jump to the Two Step Basic Patterns on this page

What is Country Two Step?

Country Two Step also known as Texas Two Step is a fun social dance seen in dance halls and country bars all over north america! It’s a partner dance that follows a counter clockwise pattern around the dance floor with lots of spins and wraps. Although it’s typically done to country music, there is plenty of two stepping done to non country music as well!

What is Texas Two Step?

Is it different from Country Two Step, Triple Two Step or Nightclub Two Step?

Texas Two Step is essentially the same as Country Two Step!

It IS different from Triple Two Step and Nightclub Two Step (don’t worry we will explain below)

This is what the basics of Country Two Step AKA Texas Two Step look like.

Remember dance is like language. You’ll find different accents in language across the country just like you’ll find different versions of two step across the country as well. Rest assured Country Two Step and Texas Two Step is all the same dance with slight regional differences.

However there are ‘two steps’ associated with country dancing that ARE different.

Triple Two Step and Nightclub Two Step (AKA Nightclub) are totally different.

What is Triple Two Step AKA Triple Two?

This is NOT Texas Two Step nor Country Two step!

It is it’s own form of two step thought. Confused?

Don’t worry we will make it clear as we go 🙂

What is Nightclub Two Step?

This is NOT Texas Two Step nor Country Two Step!

To avoid confusion this dance has changed its name and is just known as Nightclub.

Slightly less confusing 🙂

Country Two Step Basic Patterns

Ok now it’s time to learn the Country Two Step Basic patterns In this beginner two step tutorial you’ll lean all the basic patterns you need to look great on the dance floor, even as a beginner! Lean the basic, the outside turns, the inside turns and the couples turns!

Country Two Step Beginner Patterns

Below is a list of individual patterns that you’ll need to know as a beginner. These are the country two step basics that you’ll need to know to feel comfortable in a honky tonk, dance hall or dance studio anywhere in the world! Sometimes two step is called traveling west coast swing.

Forward Basic in country two step

The man traveling forward and the lady backward in closed or open dance position, walking with a series of four walks to the basic timing of quick, quick, slow, slow. Walks may be dance with either a heel or toe lead. This is a debatable topic among many dance professionals, with camps on both side of the fence (or should I say foot)?! An alternate timing is to count by the numbers: 1, 2, 3, 5 (holding counts 4 and 6, as they are part of the slow beat).

Backward basic and transition from forward to backward for country two step

This is the same as the first pattern, except the man travels backward while the lady walks forward. To transition from the forward basic to the backward basic, there needs to be a few side steps or chasses to smooth the change of direction.

Lady’s Right Turn ending in Promenade for country two step

The man preps the lady for a right, or outside turn, on the second slow. He leads her spin on the quick, quick, and finishes in frame in the promenade position, with both the leader and follower facing the line of dance, ready for the next pattern.

Lady’s Left Turn to Wrap for country two step

The man preps a left or inside turn for the lady on counts slow, slow, by leading a subtle swivel action with his hands and body. The follower turns to the left on the quick, quick, with her arms wrapping up into the cuddle position around her waist.

Lady’s Right Turn to Back Line of Dance for country two step

The man follows the same procedure as the previous right turn for the lady, except finishes with both partners backing the line of dance. This is the preparation for one of the most popular basic patterns, often referred to as a weave or lace. The free arm may be stylized straight out to the side for both the leader and the follower.

Chasse to Forward Line and Back Line

A chasse (or side together side) is danced facing your partner, first ending in a cross over break line, and then repeated to end in the original line, backing the line of dance.

Patty cake Vine

This combines elements of the chasse with the popular grapevine, which cross back, side, and front. Lady’s left turn to back line of dance or face partners. An inside turn for the lady is a great way to transition to different positions on the floor and to end the current position. Inside turns are generally easier for the follower to dance well.

Check weave

This pattern is the heart of the dance. Many intermediate and advanced patterns stem from this one beginner pattern. So it is very important to master and understand the connections for this figure. This step involves an inside turn for the lady. This is similar to the check weave except is danced with a lady’s outside turn, instead of an inside turn.

Two Step Dance Moves

There are an endless set of two step dance moves you can learn. First you need to master the basics. Then the followers have to be comfortable with their spins and turns in two step. Once you’re comfortable, it’s time to start learning some new patterns. The best way to learn them is with a membership to our website. It’s like Netflix for Dancers! All the moves are laid out step by step so you never have to worry if the next pattern you’re learning is within your skill set. We’ve taken the guesswork out. Give it a try!

Country Two Step Music

Now that you’re dancing you’ll need some tunes to dance to. We’ve got you covered. On the other side you’ll get our top 10 Two Step Dance tunes as well as over 100 songs that you can practice to. We have lists for country music lovers AND music suggestions for non country music as well. Winner. See our Country Two Step Song List here.

The next big step in learning how to two step dance!

Inside our members area we have 0ver 500 instructional videos to help you learn all styles of country dance. Two Step, East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Cha Cha, Nightclub, Waltz and more. You can grab a free membership and get access to 50 videos to help you improve totally FREE. Grab your Free Membership

How to dance a slow dance (slow dance) with a girl. First slow dance Dance moves for a couple slow dance

If you are invited to a slow dance by a handsome young man, do not miss the opportunity to make a new romantic acquaintance, putting all doubts about your dancing abilities aside. The main thing is your confidence and a charming smile, and your partner should take care of everything else.

Relax, forget about all the worries and worries, completely surrendering to dance and music. There are a lot of amateur dancers in nightclubs who are far from professional dance skills, so you should not be embarrassed by anyone. According to all the rules of etiquette, guys invite girls to a slow dance, with the exception of the “white”, where the fair half can use this right. nine0003

If you have only slow danced a couple of times and are going to a party with guys, and presumably couple dances, start training at home. Of course, this does not mean that it is boring to circle the room with an imaginary partner, but it would be nice to work on posture and physical exercises. A straight straightened back, tactful soft movements, the correct position of the hands - and half the success is guaranteed to you!

Slow dance technique for girls. nine0009

The distance between partners depends on the proximity of their relationship. If you just met today, then you should keep your distance. According to the rules of pair dances, the guy puts his right hand on the woman's waist, holding her palm with his left. If you are dancing with your young man, you can put your arms around his neck. In a slow dance, you can make swaying, smooth turns, steps - the main thing is that all movements fall in time with the melody. Dance the way you want and know how, do not give out the present excitement to your partner and believe in your uniqueness. nine0003

The basic rules of slow dancing for girls:

women in slow dance are led, the process is completely controlled by the partner, and the lady only needs to repeat the movements after him. The initiative should be taken into your own hands only in the case when the young man is confused and cannot concentrate on the dance;
keep your legs and your partner's legs in line so you won't interfere with each other;
try not to make your movements abrupt, but confident and smooth; nine0016
watch your posture and legs - they should not drag on the floor and be "wooden".

Dance school - your step to stunning success

If you want to learn how to dance slow dances at a professional level and surprise your partner, enroll in a dance school where experienced masters will teach you all the skills of beautiful steps in pair dance. At first, all students have to face difficulties, but thanks to regular loads and training, you can very quickly come to a positive result. How quickly you will work out dance tactics and show the first results depends directly on the coach and the type of lesson. In individual training, more time is devoted to exactly your needs and developing the necessary skills. The trainer develops an individual program for you, which you gradually go through. nine0003

Not a single disco can do without a slow dance, or, as it is called by the people, a “slow dance”. On the one hand, there is nothing complicated in it, but on the other hand, such a dance hides various secrets. Let's figure out how to learn how to dance a slow dance to shine in all discos.

How to dance slow dance: a guide to action

Slow dance begins with an invitation. Traditionally, the guy should invite. Sometimes the host of the event announces a white dance. This means that the girls are invited. However, in modern society it is not particularly important who invites whom, so if you want to dance with a guy, but he is not too active, feel free to go to him yourself. Invite you to a slow dance with a smile, and then your partner will definitely not be able to refuse you. nine0003

How to dance a slow dance so as not to embarrass yourself in front of your partner?

Get into position to dance. Traditionally, the girl's right hand should lie in the guy's hand. The girl's left hand is on the guy's shoulder, and the guy's right hand is on the girl's waist. Sometimes it is acceptable to put both of the girl's hands on the guy's neck, and both of the guy's hands on the girl's waist. Put your feet in a comfortable position, at a distance of about 30-40 cm from each other. The distance between the couple should be at least 15-30 cm. Only if you are in a relationship can you get closer. nine0003

Any slow dance is led by a guy. To do this, he must slightly pull the girl by the hand, showing her where he is going to move. A girl needs to feel a partner and follow him. All movements should be smooth and soft. Sharp movements in this dance will be inappropriate.

If you don't know how to dance, it's not scary, everyone learns at some point. Before the dance, you can ask your partner if he can dance. If yes, let him teach you. There is nothing to be ashamed of. You will be happy to help. Here are some more helpful tips. nine0003

Do not lift your feet, but slide them on the floor. This way you won't step on your partner's foot.
Periodically make eye contact with your partner to show your interest, but don't stare at them all the time.
Have casual conversation while dancing.
If you stepped on your partner's foot, apologize and be careful in the future. If you have been attacked, do not be angry.

And don't forget to thank your partner when the dance is over. This old-fashioned gesture is very cute and quite appropriate. nine0003

Dance lessons for boys

First slow dance

Disco, school party, friendly party - everywhere you need the ability to dance.

Slow dance, or colloquially "slow dance" is a separate conversation. Slow dancers don't dance with the first girl they meet. This dance is reserved for a special person. To invite a girl to a slow dance means to distinguish her from others. Often, slow dancing can help start a deeper, more serious relationship. However, one should not think that a slow dance is tantamount to a declaration of love. This is just a way to show a girl that you enjoy her company. How to behave further, after the final chord of music, is a completely different topic. nine0003

Here we will just talk about slow dancing, how to invite a girl and how to dance with her.

First of all, remember that slow dancing is not a separate art, but just a kind of dance.

Dance is rhythmic and plastic movements to music. They are performed in a certain rhythm and tempo, which are set by the music. The set of movements itself also depends on the nature of the music. Therefore, if you want to dance well, first of all learn to catch the rhythm and feel the music. You won’t dance a slow dance to a fast, cheerful melody, and you won’t dance a break dance to a long song. nine0003

How to develop a sense of rhythm

A sense of rhythm is half the battle in dancing.

Rhythm is the ratio of the duration of the sounds that follow each other. Music consists of sounds of different duration. One note sounds for half a second, another for a second, and so on. There are pauses between sounds, which also last for different times. Each particular song has its own specific rhythm. Imagine a piece of paper with a wavy line drawn on it. In one section, the line bends widely and smoothly, in another it is drawn with small teeth, in the third it jumps high up and falls sharply down, in the fourth it practically turns into a straight line. If we translate this picture into the language of music, we have a rhythmic pattern. It is varied. But it is drawn on top of cells of the same size. The cells are the meter. Meter is a uniform alternation of elements. The sounds in a rhythm can be of the same or equal length. The duration of sounds in a meter should be constant, the same. The simplest example of a meter: for one - a blow, for two - a pause. The meter consists of weak and strong beats. The beat must coincide with the downbeat in the measure, i.e. with the sound that stands out the most from the others. The pause should coincide with the weak beat. In our beat-pause example, there is one upbeat and one downbeat. But there are other varieties of meters. Remember: inside one “cell” of a meter there can be only one strong beat and from two or more weak beats. For example, "blow, pause, pause" is a three-part meter in which all waltzes are written. "Beat, pause, pause, pause" is a four-beat meter characteristic of tango. nine0003

So, meter is an abstract concept, and rhythm is a concrete one. The meter is the parallels and meridians on the globe, the rhythm is the trajectory of the ship, plotted taking into account these parallels and meridians.

When the meter is struck, make sure that the same time elapses between one and the second strike. When the rhythm is beaten, they make sure that the required number of beats fits in a certain period of time.

Rhythm and meter are beaten at the same pace, that is, with a certain speed. Each song has its own rhythm and tempo. School music lessons are just aimed at developing a sense of rhythm. It's good that teachers remember this. nine0003

One often hears about the innate sense of rhythm. Indeed, there are people who, almost from the cradle, drum with their palms to the beat of the music, that is, they just tap out the rhythm at the right pace.

But the sense of rhythm can be developed. If you find it difficult to catch the rhythm and maintain a given pace, do not lose heart. They say that drummers have the best sense of rhythm. And it is true! Follow the example of the drummers and practice. Make a playlist of your favorite music, and it should include both slow and fast songs, both sad and incendiary. While listening to them, beat the rhythm. It is better to start by beating the meter. A loud blow - on a strong beat, quiet blows - on a weak one. At first, you can count the shares, highlighting the strong shares with your voice: one, two, three; one two Three. However, it is not necessary to abuse the account, otherwise, during the dance, you may begin to mutter the account under your breath from excitement, and this will not make a good impression on your partner. nine0003

When you learn how to confidently tap strong and weak beats, stop getting confused, stray, start practicing rhythm tapping. It is more convenient to learn from songs with words: accompany each syllable that the singer utters with a blow. Remember to tap a little louder on the strong beat than on the weak ones, so as not to go astray.

Learned how to beat the beat and rhythm with your hands - use your feet. Tap your favorite melodies with your hands and feet, dance. While alone with yourself, you can not care about plastic. Your task is to develop a sense of rhythm. When you achieve this, you can no longer worry that you will step on your partner’s foot in the dance. As a rule, the problem of clumsy dancers is not at all that they cannot move plastically, but that they dance separately from the music. nine0003

How to learn to dance

At the same time, learn the simplest dance moves, or steps. As already mentioned, slow dancing is not needed in order to demonstrate your athletic skills or acrobatic dexterity. Believe me: if a girl enjoys your company, she will gladly trample on the spot with you or sway from side to side. But, of course, you will impress your partner much more if you show your dancing skills as well.

If something doesn't work out, don't give up and think that dancing is "not for you." You may not learn how to dance the tango or the rumba, but you can master a few simple dance moves. nine0003

Of course, don't rely on luck. Do not expect that at the first sounds of music your body will begin to move as it should. In order for dance movements to turn out “by themselves”, you need to train a lot. Feel free to rehearse at home in front of a mirror. If you have the opportunity, record your workouts on a video camera. Then you can calmly review the records, look at yourself from the outside, analyze mistakes, mark your achievements. This is exactly what many famous dancers, singers, actors, athletes do. nine0003

It's good if there is a person in your environment who can help you: give you useful advice, agree to act as a dance partner. Reach out to a close friend, brother or sister. Do not write off from the accounts and parents.

If you don't want to tell anyone about your dance plans, it doesn't matter. But remember: dancing with the air is not the same as twirling in a dance with a living person. When you feel confident enough dancing with an imaginary partner, move on to "weight training." Let a chair with a back, a pillow, a plaid rolled up in a roller, dressed in a mother's dress, etc., make a couple for you. nine0003

Partner should be nicely invited. We will talk about the intricacies of interpersonal communication a little later. In the meantime, let's learn the simplest thing: straighten up and, holding your posture, approach your partner. At the same time, give the girl your right hand as an invitation and say some simple phrase, for example: “Hi. May I invite you?" The hand that you serve should be slightly bent at the elbow and placed palm up. It is assumed that if the girl accepts the invitation, she will put her pen in your palm. nine0003

During the dance, your hands should lie strictly on the girl's waist, i.e. where the back meets the line of the belt. Make sure that your hands do not slip on her buttocks, but also do not raise your palms to her armpits, to the chest area. These are forbidden areas. If you are a real man, then do not allow yourself to disrespect a girl.

Do not snuggle up to a girl while dancing. From the first to the last sound of the “slow”, the distance between you should be at least 15 cm.

It is customary for a man to lead the dance. This means that you should give direction to the dance and suggest dance moves. The initiative should be yours. First of all, catch the rhythm and tempo of the music you are about to dance to. If you are well prepared, it will take a moment. nine0003

Take a step to the right with your right foot. Once your right foot is on the ground, move your left foot to the right as well. You have returned to your starting position.

Now step with your left foot to the left, and when it touches the ground, move your right foot to the left.

Alternate steps: right foot to the right, pull the left leg behind it; left leg to the left, pull the right leg behind it. Do not spread your legs too wide, but do not stand as a "soldier". The position of the legs should be such that you can dance freely. nine0003

Your body should be completely relaxed. The dancer on "wooden" legs looks awkward. Let not only your feet be involved in the movement, but also your legs, hips, shoulders. Movements should be smooth and moderate. Don't stagnate, but don't sway from side to side like a sailor in a big storm.

Maintain the correct posture: then it will be easier for you to dance. The main thing is that you move to the beat of the music.

This is the minimum that a young man must master for the first slow dance. nine0003

The first step is to change the rhythm of the dance: make the movements either faster and sharper, or more measured and smooth. Of course, the dance moves must match the music.

The second step is to alternate steps with turns. When training, be sure to try a variety of options. But whether it is worth including turns in a dance with a real partner depends on the situation. First, pay attention to your girl's dancing skills, her mood, the degree of emancipation. If she is not very confident on the dance floor or is clearly embarrassed, do not put her to the test. Show delicacy. Second, objectively assess your own skill level and mood. If you feel insecure, constrained, it is better not to risk it. nine0003

Don't stop the dance early, but don't linger on the dance floor after the music is over. The final chords of the song play and you complete the slow dance.

No matter how the dance develops, after its completion, do not leave your partner in the middle of the hall. Smile at the girl, thank her for the dance, and be sure to escort her to where she was before you invited her. Why is this item placed here? Because in training you have to rehearse your first slow dance inside and out: invitation, dance, end. Sometimes from excitement all thoughts are confused. In a real situation, you can so forget with joy that after the end of the dance you really leave your partner and hastily leave. The reason for this will be an overabundance of emotions, and the girl will regard your act as rudeness. Therefore, everything must be worked out to automatism. But even in this case, remember: in reality, unforeseen circumstances may arise. Do not be afraid of them, tune in to act according to the circumstances. You also don't need to get lost if you make a mistake. Nobody is perfect. But a real man is distinguished by the ability to save face: admit a mistake, take it lightly (but not frivolously!), With humor, healthy self-irony, and most importantly, correct the mistake made. Sincerity and endurance will atone in the eyes of the girl for any of your random mistakes. nine0003

How to ask a girl to dance

Many boys are embarrassed to ask a girl they like to dance because they are afraid of rejection. Another reason is the fear of others, because there are a lot of people around at the dances, and a couple of her girlfriends will probably stand next to the girl herself.

But think for yourself: if you constantly pay attention to those around you, you will stand on the sidelines all your life, and the girl you like will be invited by another, more courageous and most likely less worthy young man. nine0003

Moreover, you should not be afraid of the girls themselves. In fact, all girls dream of being invited to a slow dance. A girl can stand with an impregnable look or portray indifference, even boredom. Don't let this confuse you: in the soul, every girl expects that a handsome prince is about to appear and spin her in a dance. The only problem is that invitations may not be expected from you at all. But if you don't try your luck, you'll never know.

Never set yourself up for failure, but at the same time be prepared to hear "no". Remember: neither consent nor refusal should come as a shocking surprise to you. Both outcomes absolutely equally have the right to exist, and there is nothing terrible or shameful in any of them. But your own reaction to refusal or consent is just the same very important. nine0003

When inviting a girl to dance, be confident, but not impudent. Girls like calm, confident men. These qualities have nothing to do with rudeness and swagger. Be sincere: show that you will be very pleased if the girl accepts your invitation, but do not beg or humiliate yourself. The girl must understand: her refusal will upset you, but will not crush you, will not unsettle you.

Do not mumble, do not stutter, but at the same time do not shout. Pronounce the words clearly, distinctly, so that the girl and those who stand in the immediate vicinity of her can hear you, but not the entire dance hall. No need for long ornate “beautiful” phrases: among the noise of music they are difficult to hear and even more difficult to pronounce. Use a simple phrase: "Can I invite you?", "Let's go dancing?" nine0003

Don't try to act indifferent: the girl will think that you treat her with disdain. Sincerity, interest, hope and goodwill - this is what a girl should see on your face.

If a girl's father is standing next to her, address him: "Let me invite your daughter to dance." This will make a good impression on both the girl and her father.

If a girl's friends are standing next to her, you politely greet the whole company and invite the one you want to dance with. The girl herself and her girlfriends at this time are likely to giggle and even whisper. Don't be embarrassed and don't take it personally. Remember that the girl you invite to the dance is just as embarrassed as you. Her laugh is a defensive reaction. Her girlfriends laugh because they envy the lucky woman, and besides, they are embarrassed: after all, they have become unwitting witnesses to your conversation. nine0003

If your potential rival is standing next to a girl, you politely greet or simply nod, and address the invitation exclusively to the girl. It is up to her to choose who to dance with. Just be prepared for the possible consequences: it is possible that after the dance you will have to deal with the rejected opponent “like a man”.

The girl smiled back, gave her hand, and you went dancing. Then do everything as you rehearsed. We will talk about how to behave during the dance a little later. nine0003

But another situation is also possible: the girl said no. If she is well brought up, she will be able to refuse you politely. If not, then think about why you even need such a girl. You yourself must be polite in any case. If you are very upset, if you are angry, if you have been answered rudely and even showered with ridicule, you, as a man, are obliged to keep your cool.

To be rude in response (especially to a girl!) is absolutely unmanly. Smile, shrug your shoulders slightly, say, “Well, thank you. I'm sorry," and leave quietly. nine0003

If you receive a refusal, in no case do not immediately invite the first girl who comes across standing next to you. Firstly, by doing this you will offend the girl invited to "replace". Secondly, create an impression of yourself as a frivolous, frivolous and promiscuous person. The best solution would be to just skip this slow. Sit or stand aside, think about something pleasant.

Is it worth inviting a girl again after one refusal? It all depends on the reasons for the refusal. If a girl clearly shows that she is not interested in you, you should not beat your forehead against the wall. But there may be another situation. For example, a girl was shy of her girlfriends or was already invited to this dance by others. In this case, it is worth trying your luck again. But don't be intrusive. Most likely, your "stickiness" will scare the girl away. nine0003

If you yourself are invited to a dance by a girl, never refuse! You have the right to say "no" to her only if you have already invited another to this dance. A guy who kicks a girl deserves nothing but contempt. Just don't give her false hope. Be polite, but nothing more.

How to behave during the dance

In the old days, young people met mostly at balls and talked during the dance. Today, of course, both manners and dances have changed. nine0003

But something has remained unchanged.

So, what to do during the slow dance? Anyway, don't be silent! Wait a bit (10-15 seconds) and start a conversation. No need to tell your whole life or lay out detailed information about your hobbies and habits to a girl. No need to interrogate the girl herself! The conversation should be easy, relaxed. Choose a neutral topic, but at the same time be sincere, show interest. For starters, you can ask if the girl likes music. You can note how fun the holiday is, how great the party is organized, or how skillfully the DJ at the disco works today. A little later, say that the girl dances well. Just don’t lie frankly: if a girl stepped on your foot five times during a dance, it’s better to keep silent about her dancing skills. If the girl herself suggested some topic for conversation, keep the conversation going, but make sure that your speech does not turn into a monologue. nine0003

While slow dancing, look the girl in the face. Your eyes should be fixed on her eyes, and not on your partner's chest, shoulders or "nowhere". The girl should not get the impression that during the dance you are thinking about something extraneous (even if you really are).

If you step on your partner's foot, excuse yourself calmly and continue the dance. Don't worry, it happens to everyone. If a girl steps on your feet, do not show that you are unhappy. If possible, pretend not to notice. nine0003

And most importantly, enjoy the dance!

After the dance, don't forget to thank the girl and take her to her place.

Slow dance :you probably love him or hate him too, since the first slow dance starts in middle school. Dancing can be so romantic and there are still plenty of people who don't have any trouble pumping their booties all night and start
towards the curb when the music slows down. Don't turn into a lonely girl at the end of the evening. You, too, can learn to love slow dancing. nine0003

Steps.

1. Ask someone to dance . You can't slow dance alone, at least without looking, and slowly. If you visit someone on a significant date
, you probably want to ask him or her to dance. If you don't have a partner, find a partner. Set yourself in a good mood by looking
into the person's eyes when you ask him or her to dance. A smile or even a playful smile will go a long way in putting both of you into a relaxed state. If you are
are nervous, don't show it, and be more understanding if he or she doesn't want to dance.

2. Accompany your partner to the dance floor slowly and smoothly . The easiest way to do this is to go in hand in hand, as you walked out onto the floor together.
Guys, clasp your partner's right hand with the left hand, slightly lift it up, and head to the dance floor. Girls, if your partner cannot automatically direct
you to the floor, give him your right hand or by all lies your elbow in his and go to the floor. nine0073 If you are already on the dance floor , key here, may be in
save yourself and your partner on the dance floor is no easy task if one or both of you are nervous about slow dancing. If your partner is nervous,
smile and tell him or her that there is nothing to worry about.

3. Get into item slow dance. Stand facing your partner so that your head is about a foot or two from his or
her head. Some pairs stand offset, with the right foot inside the other pairs; some partners may step on a woman's feet. If you are a teenager, you can always0183 place both hands on the girl's thigh, and if you are a girl put both hands around his neck.

4. Create an appropriate level of intimacy . You need to know where to put your hands and how close to dance. It shouldn't look awkward. To be safe in
, the man must place his right hand on his partner's left thigh, and his left hand, gently grasp the partner's right hand and hold it up at shoulder level
(above the partner), so that both partners' arms are bent upwards from the elbow . The woman's left hand will be mainly placed on the partner's shoulder. This is traditional ballroom dancing
(basic position as well as safe position) and you must still be about a foot away from your partner. If both of you are in a romantic relationship
, you can even get into a hug position where the guy has his arm around the girl's waist and the girl has her arm around his shoulders. (Same-sex couples can decide which
takes which position, or even take turns.) Generally speaking, you shouldn't let your hand wander. Even if your partner doesn't mind, it distracts others
dancers.

5. Allow is hard to lead. Traditionally, the man leads the dance and the woman follows. (If you're a same-sex couple, one of you can be the
natural leader and one follower, or you can just take the turn.)

Guys, this can't be overstated : if you are driving, then this is guide for your partner . This doesn't mean you have to dance around her
like a mop, it means you have to be confident enough in your bodily movements to tell her what you want to do. The easiest way
do it - subtly push or pull her right hand (if you're holding it in your left hand) in the direction you want to go. However, make sure you don't do all of your
lead moves with just your arms, if your body is doing one thing and your arms are doing another, you may get a pushy response so you need to know what you are doing.
Instead, needs to lead the whole body with you : hold your shoulders and elbows tight but not tight (you don't want to move like an automaton) and then step in the
direction you want to take your partner. That's right, and you will soon be the envy of all the girls floating around the dance floor with their partners.
Ladies , unfortunately, is often not carried out, which means relying on the mercy of a partner with all the guiding capabilities of dead jellyfish. How boring they are, and
must do everything possible to never take her to the dance again or he will never learn. (In fact, you can even try to go for the passive aggressive approach,
swaying in place while he gets the hint. ) If, on the other hand, you're lucky enough to get a partner to lead - even if awkward - don't fight
with him. In fact, do your best to follow along, the more clear you make that he's in charge here, the more likely he is to try and trick you
better.

6. Slow and easy . Lucky for you, slow dancing is about as easy as it gets. Movements should be slow and fluid, and you don't need to
move a lot. Rocking back and forth as if you are moving in a circle is perfectly acceptable. Even if you are knowledgeable enough to dance a
established dance form such as the waltz or foxtrot, chances are your
partner doesn't know how to do it. It just needs to shift the weight back and forth, which is body language. Change, move or rotate, lift your leg slightly and put your weight on it and move your leg slightly forward, backward or sideways. nine0003

7. Move to the beat . Your steps should move at approximately the same time to the music as you step. It's not as difficult as it might seem with
music, it's more likely to be slow during the slow dance.

8. Interact with your partner . For most of us, the slow dance is more about being close to your partner and getting to know each other better. Feel free to talk to your partner to look into his or her eyes and, if the situation is right, steal a kiss or two. nine0003

9. Thank your dance partner . You danced with your wife of 60 years or someone you've never met before, thank your partner.

10. Continue on the next dance, or gracefully back off. Once you get comfortable with slow dancing, you may not want to run the floor as fast as
is possible: one dance is just the beginning. If, however, you've had enough dancing for now, step back from the dance floor. Ladies if you must find your
friend's girlfriend and squeal about cute boy you just dance do it. Guys, if you need to go show off, pretty girl, you danced, do it. Keep in mind at
, however, that retreating can also be used to find a place to just stand and relax, or if you don't want another dance.

Make sure your posture is comfortable when dancing. The position of the feet should be such that you don't have to tense up or stretch when you dance.

Be respectful.
Let's talk if it happens. Many people will slow dance just to get a chance to talk to you. If the conversation flows, let
goes on as usual. If you allow this flow, be genuinely interested in the conversation, and be genuinely interested in your partner.
Try moving your legs instead of collecting them. This way you are less likely to step on your partner's feet.
Guys, be sweet. Girls are attracted to it.
Girls, if you really can't dance with a guy, just say that your legs hurt.
Make sure you don't look at your partner. nine0016

Warnings

Talk to and look at your partner as your friend! Looking over your partner's shoulder at someone else will not end well.
Men never even consider leading women for purposes other than affectionately. It can be hard and tender, but it's better to be soft. There are several reasons: A) If you
hurt her, she will most likely not dance with you again, and she will probably tell her friends about it. Worst case scenario, she'll tell security, and
then you're in trouble. C) Practice will really make everything perfect. Maybe it's not dancing with you again someday - but maybe you just noticed how you treated
this dance like a gentleman... and she's looking for the next time you're free.
If you step on someone's feet, apologize, and for God's sake, try not to do it again. If someone steps on your feet and apologizes, I'm sorry. There is a possibility,
, that it was just an accident.

Everyone has danced a slow dance at least once in their life. Someone is delighted with the slow mover, someone does not like it. But in any case, you should at least have an idea how you need to move and what to do. Otherwise, you will step on your dance partner's foot and spoil the mood. In fact, there is nothing complicated about this, after all, you don’t need to dance the waltz. Therefore, having trained a couple of times at home, you will master it and be able to invite someone you like. nine0003

Even if you are not going to invite anyone, it is possible that you will be invited. And what will you do in this case? Constantly refusing is not an option, you can offend the person with your behavior. Yes, no one is to blame for the fact that you have so many complexes and you cannot learn the simplest movements.

Practice at home . But with whom? It is desirable that you have a partner, let it be mom or dad, sister or friend. Yes, anyone! If this is not possible, you will have to imagine that you are dancing with someone. nine0003

Before you start dancing, you must invite a person . It can be any appeal: “Let's dance”, “Do you want to dance with me”, “Do you mind?”. If you are a young man, it would not hurt to extend your palm to a girl. When inviting a person, look him in the face, do not be shy. If they invite you, answer: “I don’t mind”, “With pleasure”.

Be careful not to shake your limbs, as this will confuse your partner. It is possible that he also cannot dance and is as afraid as you are. nine0003

Rule of thumb: don't make sudden movements . Slow - that's why he's slow, the movements are smooth and measured. If you twitch strangely, not only will it look funny, in addition, you will also injure the person you are dancing with.

If you are a man, you must accompany the girl not only on the dance floor, but also immediately after the invitation to dance, and also after the end of the dance. It will be strange if you leave the girl halfway, she is unlikely to like it. nine0003

How to slow dance with a girl correctly:

Well, let's get down to the most important thing - the stance and movements. First of all, pay attention to the position of the hands - with your left, grab the girl's right hand and hold it at shoulder level. Thus, the arms should be bent at the elbows. Your second hand (right) is located on the back or thigh.
What about the distance from each other? Of course, you don’t need to cuddle up to a partner (unless you have a close relationship with him). This will hinder movement, so keep a distance of about 20 cm, this is quite enough. nine0016
How should a girl dance? Put your left hand on the shoulder of the man, this movement is taken from ballroom dancing. In addition, this way you definitely will not provoke a man to something more.
If you have a close relationship - you can not keep the distance, which we wrote about above. The same applies to the position, hug the man by the shoulders. If this is your girlfriend, hug her around the waist.
Never put your hands on the buttocks, do not try to reach the chest of the woman you are dancing with. This is not only uncivilized, but also unpleasant. It is unlikely that you will make a good impression this way. nine0016
What to do with the legs? Your steps should not be too short, or vice versa, too wide. It is important that your partner keep up with you. Try to feel it and understand at what pace it moves.

Leading a slow dance

Well, you have found a suitable position for yourself, now you need to start the dance itself. As you understand, the man is leading, he is in charge here. Therefore, you do not need to stand like an idol and wait for the weather by the sea.

Your movements must be confident, but at the same time not abrupt. No need to treat partners like a thing. Just point her hand in the direction you are going to move, so she will determine the direction. You can also gently push it in the right direction (push, not push !!!). nine0003

Watch your shoulders, because they are of great importance in the dance. The posture is even, the shoulders are almost motionless, straightened.

If you can't decide on a direction, or if you find your partner can't keep up with you, talk to him. There is nothing wrong with talking while dancing, so you will avoid mistakes and awkwardness.

Completion

No less important stage than the beginning of the delay. Say thank you to your partner for dancing with you. In this case, you can touch the elbow of a girl or a guy with your hand, smile. And it does not matter at all whether you danced well or badly - in the end, your partner will be pleased to hear good words. nine0003

9 video lessons to learn how to dance - www.ellegirl.ru

In trend

If you have already found the perfect dress, shoes, stylist and you think that you are completely ready for graduation, think again - have you forgotten anything? Did you learn to dance? Yes, you may look amazing, but will you really enjoy the prom if you sit at the table all the holiday because of the inability to move? We doubt.

If all this is about you, then read on, because we are going to teach you how to dance, regardless of your level of training. But! Before you start learning the moves, remember not to do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable. nine0003

Milly Rock Dance

If there's one dance that everyone will dance at prom, it's probably Milly Rock. It may seem complicated at first glance, but in fact it is not. Just follow these rules:

Starting with the right hand. Keep your elbow close to your body and move as if you were patting your front left shoulder. But don't really touch it.
Then do the same with the left hand.
When you come back to your right hand and start to lower it to your left shoulder, stop like you've fooled everyone and you're not going to dance (but you're going to, don't go anywhere). Then finish the move. Let's just call it a scam for the sake of simplicity. nine0016
Continue to move your arms in the following pattern: right, left, trick right, left, right, left. Do it over and over again.
Moving on to the feet: as you make the move with your right hand, lift your left heel and draw a small semi-circle with the toes of that foot. Okay, now vice versa: left arm and right leg. That is, when you change hands, change legs.
When you make a snag with your hand, you also need to do the same with your legs. Pretend that your foot begins to lift the heel, but then changes its mind, but still lifts it again and completes the semicircle. nine0016
Put it all together, watch the video to see it, and here it is! You are already dancing!

Feel the beat

Feeling the beat can be very easy for some, but some people aren't musically inclined, so they have to put in some effort to catch it. If you have the same problem, use these steps:

When you hear the song, keep your heel on the floor and start tapping your toe roughly in time with the music.
Start counting: 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2, 1, 2…
As you keep tapping and counting, start clapping each time you say “two”: 1, clap, 1, clap, 1, clap …
Okay, now stop tapping your foot and listen to the music and its rhythm. How would you let the melody through your body. Do you feel? It looks like you made it!

Foxtrot Couple Dance

If you don't want to just sway to the beat of the music with your partner on slow dances, then try the foxtrot. It's very simple, but it will greatly impress your friends. Perfect dance, just follow these steps:

The lead partner must take two steps forward, starting with the right foot. Then step to the left, and bring your legs together.
The other simultaneously with him, starting with the left foot, steps back twice, then to the right and also brings his legs together.
Hold your hands like in a waltz (see video)
Keeping your hands in this position, repeat the movements of the legs again and again. Everybody!

Slow dance

If the previous version is too complicated or unusual, then here's another one for you:

Hold your hands as you like: you can like the couple in the video, you can do it differently.
The main thing here is the legs. To dance a slow dance, you need to master the step-touch. To do this, take a step to the left with your left foot, put your right foot to it, now step to the right with your right foot and add your left foot. Literally repeat it over and over again!
Make sure you move to the beat of the music and mirror each other and everything will be perfect.
You can also move in circles. To do this, just take steps at an angle, not in a straight line. nine0016

2-step

Simple Steps is the perfect dance move because it's so simple and works with so many songs. Once you have mastered these steps, you can vary the movements in any way you like: wave your arms as you like, jump from foot to foot instead of regular steps - in general, do everything that your imagination is capable of.

Good news!

Here are the same foot movements as in the slow dance: step to the left, prefix, step to the right, prefix. Everything is simple! Keep your knees free, add any hand movement - you're dancing. nine0003

Grind

You can dance with a partner not only to slow, but also to fast music and without even touching each other. See how:

Stand in front of your partner with your back to him. Bend your knees.
Now start making circles with your waist.
One of you can move to the left and the other to the right, or you can move together.
In this dance there is no reason to touch each other, you can leave space between each other. So it's definitely suitable for dancing at school. nine0016

Shoot dance

You definitely saw this dance, if not at school, then at least on Instagram (an extremist organization banned in Russia), YouTube or any other place, because it is very, very popular. Therefore, most likely, you will see this dance at your graduation. So, what you need for this:

Bend your left leg and lift it back.
Jump on the right and throw the left forward straightening.
Bend your left leg again as you jump. Continue to bend-unbend it to the beat of the jumps. nine0016
Now for the arms: keep them down, and as you kick the air, move your left arm back and forth.
Then after four back and forth movements, raise your left arm above your head. In the same way, swing your arm while kicking your leg four times, and lower your arm again.

Floss

If you've never heard of this dance, where have you been? And if you don't know how to dance it, then don't worry, now we'll teach you:

Lower your arms along your body, clenching your fists. nine0016
Imagine that you are holding a stick about a meter long. Then imagine that you are trying to break it on your right thigh: move the "stick" a little to the right to break it.
Now move your hands back, holding an imaginary stick. Well done, you broke it, but, OMG, another one has appeared, and it needs to be broken on the left thigh!
Bring your arms forward, move to the other side and back again.
Learn more