Made famous by Harry Fox of New York City, the Foxtrot features elements of jazz, smooth transitions, and charming characters. A slightly faster timing than the International Foxtrot, American Smooth Foxtrot allows for a more upbeat version of the dance. When thinking about American Smooth Foxtrot, think Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers—bright energy and enthusiasm!
Timing
Danced in a 4/4 time signature, the Foxtrot is danced to jazzy music and can vary from peppy and pop-like to smooth and flowy. Many dancers find it easy to initially pick up the 8-count beat of the Foxtrot.
Foxtrot can be counted 1234, or in slows and quicks. When counted in slows and quicks, a "slow" represents two beats, and a "quick" represents a single beat. Therefore, "1234" may be counted "slow, quick, quick" or "quick, quick, slow" or even "quick, quick, quick, quick" depending on the figure.
Breakdown of Basic Step
The Foxtrot has an upbeat energy and the basic steps begin simply by walking! Learn more about the Foxtrot and learn more steps to dance within our syllabus manuals here.
As a follower:
- Start with your weight on your left foot with your right foot free.
- Step back on your right foot, taking two counts (1,2 or "slow).
- Step back on your left foot, taking two counts (1,2 or "slow).
- Step side with the right foot, taking one count.
- Close your left foot to your right foot, taking one count.
- Begin again!
As a leader:
- Start with your weight on your right foot with your left foot free.
- Step forward with your left foot, taking two counts (1,2 or "slow).
- Step forward with your right foot, taking two counts (1,2 or "slow).
- Step side with the left foot, taking one count.
- Close your right foot to your left foot, taking one count.
- Begin again!
Try it from Home
Dance to the Music
We love Foxtrot so much, we made a whole playlist of Foxtrot music!
Check out our curated Spotify playlists created with dancers like you in mind. Take our playlists with you to the studio or use it to practice from home. Who knows, you just might find your new favorite song to jam to and get inspired by!
Now that you’re hooked on the Foxtrot, check out more steps on our website and App. Let’s dance.
