How to Do the Over-the-Top Tap Dance Step

An over-the-top tap dance step is a hopping step in which the dancer's legs cross over each other. This step requires concentration and balance. Learn how to go over-the-top within a few hours of practice.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Stand with both legs separated, shoulder-width apart.

2. Lift your right leg with your toes pointed toward the front of your left leg. Your foot should be about 2 inches off the floor.

3. Hop with your left leg. The goal is to hop over your right leg as it stays still.

4. Land with your left foot flat on the floor. Your right leg is still raised and bent at the knee, only now it is behind your left leg.

5. Shift your weight to your right leg by placing your right foot flat onto the floor and stepping onto it.

6. Repeat this step on the other side by beginning again with the left leg instead.

Tips & Warnings

• This step must be practiced slowly. Holding your arms out to the side, at shoulder height, helps keep your balance.
• For a different sound, add a brush with the toe of your lifted foot as you bring your front foot across the back foot.
• Keep your upper body straight when doing this move. Your arms may move during this step, but proper posture supports your balance.
• Failure to warm up or stretch before learning this step can cause serious strains and injuries.