Each step takes up a full beat of the music. Both partners will then step to the side on the other foot, and conclude the figure by closing the first foot beside the second (hence the name 'closed' of the step). The leader steps forward on either foot whilst the follower steps backward on the opposing foot (e.g.: the leader steps forward on their right foot whilst the follower steps back on their left). Timing and length of steps vary from dance to dance.Ĭlosed change is a basic step in the waltz. It is a gliding, flowing step with the feet essentially following a step–together–step pattern. See also: Glossary of ballet terms § Chaînésįrench for 'chain', a series of quick turns starting from second position going to first position alternating on either flat feet or on relevé with progression along a straight line or circle.Ĭhassé (French, 'to chase') is a dance step with a triple step pattern used in many forms of dance.

Rhythm varies, e.g., it is '1-2-3,4-5-6' in Waltz and 'slow quick quick, slow quick quick' in Rumba.Ĭhaînés / chainé turns / chaines turns During the second and fourth step it is advised the foot to travel along two sides of the box, rather than along its diagonal. First half-box: Forward-side-together Second half-box: Backwards-side-togetherĮvery step is with full weight transfer. The leader begins with the left foot and proceeds as follows. It is used, e.g., in American Style ballroom dances: rumba, waltz, bronze-level foxtrot. The box step is a dance figure named so because the steps rest in the four corners of a square. For some dances it is sufficient to know the basic step performed in different handholds and dance positions to enjoy it socially. Often it is called just thus: 'basic movement', 'basic step' or the like. This is mostly used in jazz and jive.īasic (step / figure / movement / or pattern) Ī basic figure is the very basic step that defines the character of a dance. A step on the spot, with twisting foot and the weight on the heel, like this.īall change is a movement where the dancer shifts the weight from the ball of one foot to the other and back.

Dance moves to learn