Foxtrot Dance Steps: Learn the Basics of Foxtrot

Compared to other ballroom dances such as salsa or tango, foxtrot dance steps are not extremely popular for those starting to learn such dances. One reason for this lack of popularity is the difficulty of the dance rhythm, which in most cases involves slow-slow-quick-quick. Furthermore, in other versions the moves are slow-quick-quick and this makes them difficult to follow. In reality, once the foxtrot’s movements and rhythm have been internalized, there is hardly any similarity between the advanced and the basic movements and steps that are outlined below.

Novice dancers can comfort themselves by knowing that everyone who now knows foxtrot dance steps, simply begun by whispering the rhythms- slow… slow…quick-quick.

Below are the basic foxtrot dance steps footwork:-

The Lead’s (Man) Foxtrot Dance Steps and Footwork:

1. Begin the dance in a closed dancing frame with the left hand holding the partner’s right hand. The leader should place their right hand beneath the follower’s left arm. At the same time the right hand should gently press the partner’s left shoulder blade.

2. Using the left foot, step forward letting the foot’s sole slide parallel to the floor while stepping heel-toe to make the first “slow” step. As you take the step, your posture should sensationally rise.

3. Make the second “slow” movement. Do this by stepping forward using the right foot, letting it slowly rise and smoothly passing it over the left foot.

4. For the first “quick” beat, make the left foot go forward until it nears the right foot, and then sidestep it to the left without it touching the floor.

5. On the second “quick” beat, lift the right foot and position it close to the left foot, transferring weight to it, preparing for starting the step again.

The Follower’s (Lady) foxtrot dance steps and Footwork

1. For the follower’s or lady’s dance frame, her right hand rests on the lead’s right hand, while the left hand is lifted up and gently resting on the right shoulder of the lead.

2. As the lead moves forward using their left foot, use your right foot and step back ensuring the sole of the foot slides parallel to the floor and make a step heel-toe. Any good lead will use their hands to give you pressure, signifying rising and falling.

3. For the second “slow” beat of the basic foxtrot dance steps, use the left foot and step back passing the right foot, doing so in a slow and smooth motion.

4. For the next step, lift the right foot and make it level with the left, slightly stepping to the right (carefully using the follower’s stride to know how far to step).

5. Close the step by moving the left foot to lie parallel to the right, letting it hold the weight, until the leader signals the start of the next sequence of the foxtrot dance steps.

Having mastered the basic foxtrot dance steps, there are endless varieties of beautifully intricate foxtrot dance steps. Although it is among the complicated social dances available, people who patiently explore the foxtrot dance steps find it enjoyable and rewarding hobby for dancers of all ages.