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Two-Step Directions

The basic two-step, often referred to as the Texas two-step, evolved into a country dance from its more formal ballroom cousin, the foxtrot. Both dances use a pattern of two slow and two quick steps, but the foxtrot begins with the slow steps, while the two-step begins with the quick steps. This pattern of four steps takes six counts of music, or one and a half measures in a typical 4/4 time signature.

Instructions

    • 1

      Face your partner in a traditional hold, with the man's right hand on the small of the woman's back and his left hand holding the woman's right hand. The woman's left hand belongs on the man's right shoulder.

    • 2

      Step back with the right foot if you're a woman, or forward with the left foot if you're a man. This is count one, the first quick step.

    • 3

      Step in the same direction with the opposite foot on count two. This is the second quick step.

    • 4

      Step in the same direction with the first foot. Make this step slow and gliding to take up counts three and four.

    • 5

      Step in the same direction with the other foot, again with a gliding gait, for counts five and six.

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