TLDR;
This video provides a tutorial on basic dance steps in two-four time, essential for various dance forms. It covers steps like touch step, blocking step, close step, cross step, brush step, hop step, slide step, swing step, change step, cross change step, contra ganza, habanera, plain polka, half polka, heel and toe change step, heel and toe polka, mincing step, and shuffling step. Each step is explained with footwork and counts, making it easy to follow and learn.
- Touch step involves pointing and closing the foot.
- Blocking step focuses on heel placement and closing.
- Polka steps combine steps and hops for a lively rhythm.
Touch Step [0:07]
The touch step begins with pointing the right foot and then closing it, followed by pointing the left foot and closing it. The counting for this step is "one, two" for each foot movement. This step is fundamental and used in many dance routines as a basic movement.
Blocking Step [0:22]
The blocking step involves placing the heel of the right foot forward, then closing the left foot to meet the right foot. The count is "one, two." This step emphasizes a deliberate placement of the heel and a controlled closing motion, contributing to stability and precision in dance.
Close Step [0:39]
In the close step, you step with the right foot in any direction and then close the left foot to the right foot. The rhythm is counted as "one, two." This step is versatile and can be adapted to various directions, making it a foundational element in many dance patterns.
Cross Step [0:56]
The cross step involves stepping the right foot across the left, followed by stepping the left foot to the right foot. The count is "one, two." This step introduces a crossing motion that adds complexity and visual interest to dance sequences.
Brush Step [1:12]
The brush step starts with stepping the right foot in any direction, followed by brushing the left foot. The count is "one, two." This step incorporates a light brushing motion, adding a subtle flair to the movement.
Hop Step [1:28]
The hop step involves stepping the right foot in any direction and then hopping on the right foot. The count is "one, two." This step adds a light, bouncing quality to the dance, enhancing its rhythm and energy.
Slide Step [1:42]
The slide step includes sliding the right foot sideward or forward and then closing the left foot to the right foot. The count is "one, two." This step creates a smooth, gliding motion across the floor.
Swing Step [1:58]
The swing step involves sliding the right foot sideward or forward and then swinging the left foot across the right. The count is "one, two." This step combines a slide with a swinging motion, adding a dynamic element to the dance.
Change Step [2:14]
To perform the change step, step the right foot in any direction and close the left foot to the right foot. The count is "one and two." This step is a quick, transitional movement that allows for changes in direction or pattern.
Cross Change Step [2:31]
The cross change step involves crossing the right foot across the left, closing the left foot to the right foot, and then stepping the right foot across the left again. The count is "one and two." This step is a variation of the change step, incorporating a crossing motion for added complexity.
Contra Ganza [2:49]
The contra ganza involves lifting the right foot to the sideward right, crossing and stepping the left foot across the right foot, and then stepping the right foot. The count is "one and two." This step combines lifting and crossing motions, creating a more intricate pattern.
Habanera [3:08]
The habanera step includes stepping the right foot in any direction, closing the left foot to the right foot, and then stepping the right foot in place. The count is "one and two." This step has a distinctive rhythm and is often used in Latin-influenced dances.
Plain Polka [3:26]
The plain polka involves stepping the right foot in any direction, closing the left foot to the right foot, and then stepping right while raising the left foot. The count is "one and two and." This step is a fundamental polka movement, characterized by its quick tempo and lively feel.
Half Polka [3:43]
The half polka includes a hop, stepping the right foot forward, and closing the left foot to the right foot, then stepping the right foot forward. The count is "one and two and." This version of the polka step maintains the energetic rhythm but covers less ground.
Heel and Toe Change Step [4:01]
The heel and toe change step involves placing the heel of the right foot in front, pointing the toe in the rear, stepping right, and closing the left to the right before stepping right forward. The count is "one and two." This step combines heel and toe movements with a change step, creating a syncopated rhythm.
Heel and Toe Polka [4:25]
The heel and toe polka includes placing the heel of the right foot in front, pointing the toe in the rear, raising and stepping the right foot, and closing the left to the right before stepping right. The count is "one and two and." This step integrates heel-toe movements into the polka rhythm, adding complexity and flair.
Mincing Step [4:48]
The mincing step, performed with the heels raised, involves taking as many small steps as desired. This step is characterized by its delicate, precise movements and is often used for transitions or embellishments.
Shuffling Step [5:08]
The shuffling step is executed with both feet flat on the floor, taking tiny, slight steps. The count is "one and two and one." This step creates a smooth, gliding motion without lifting the feet, often used for subtle movements or building rhythm.