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How to Perform a Swing Basic 6 Count

The basic swing step pattern is done over six counts, but it's really only three steps. It's the start of all swing dancing moves. For West Coast swing, there are actually six steps. The steps described are for the man (or leader). The woman (or follower) performs the same steps in reverse. For West Coast swing, the woman steps forward instead of back.

Instructions

  1. Basic Swing

    • 1

      Begin by stepping to the left on your left foot for counts 1 and 2.

    • 2

      Step to the right on your right foot for counts 3 and 4.

    • 3

      Place your left foot in back of your right foot and shift your weight onto your left foot for count 5, then forward on your right foot for count 6. Count "slow, slow, quick-quick" for the basic swing step.

    West Coast Swing

    • 4

      Take two steps back. Step with the left foot first, and then the right foot for counts 1 and 2.

    • 5

      Step back on your left foot and tap the floor next to your right foot on count 3.

    • 6

      Slide your left foot forward on count 4.

    • 7

      Step up with your right foot, setting it down near your left foot on count 5. Shift your weight to the right foot, then back to the left on count 6. This is called the "hook and anchor" or the "anchor step."

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Swing Dance

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