The American, otherwise known as “East Coast” Swing, originated on the North American East Coast in the early 20th century. While it is more grounded, slower, and less “bouncy” than the Jive, it has a fun and invigorating energy, making it a definite crowd pleaser! Let's look at how to dance East Coast Swing.
Timing
The Swing is danced in a 4/4 timing, where the rock-step is danced on counts 1, 2, and the triple steps are danced on counts 3a4 and 5a6, respectively.
Another optional timing includes dancing the swing as quick, quick, (1, 2), quick a quick, quick a quick (3a4, 5a6).
Breakdown of Basic Step
As a note, the swing has a peppy energy and a slight bouncing action that contributes to its characteristic style. Triple steps can be danced with a slight bounce action by maintaining bent knees.
As a follower:
- Start with your weight on your left foot with your right foot free.
- Step back on your right foot and rock back to your left foot. This is called a rock step.
- Step to the side with your right foot, close your left foot to your right foot, and step to the side with your right foot again. This is called a triple step.
- Now perform a triple step to the left. Step to the side with your left foot, close your right foot to your left foot, and step side with the left foot again.
- Repeat steps 1-4 to continue dancing the basic step!
As a leader:
- Start with your weight on your right foot and your left foot free.
- Step back on your left foot and rock back to your right foot. This is called a rock step.
- Step to the side side with your left foot, close your right foot to your left foot, and step to the side with your left foot again. This is called a triple step.
- Now perform a triple step to the right. Step to the side with your right foot, close your left foot to your right foot, and step to the side side with the right foot again.
- Repeat steps 1-4 to continue dancing the basic step!
Try it from Home
Discover our 4 tips on how to learn to dance from home with Dance Vision.
Dance to the Music
We love Swing so much we made a whole playlist! Check out our curated Spotify playlists created with dancers like you in mind. Take our playlist with you to the studio or use it to practice from home.
Who knows, you might find your new favorite song to jam to and get inspired by!
Now that you’re hooked on the Swing, check out more steps on our website and App! Let’s dance!
