How to Perform East Coast Swing

Also referred to as the Jitterbug, the East Coast Swing is a fast-paced dance that you can perform to just about any style of music. However, it is especially suited to the oldies and jump swing. If the music is written in 4/4 time and has anywhere from 145 to 160 beats per minute, then it's perfect for the East Coast Swing. Though initially it is a little difficult to learn, with a little practice, it becomes second nature.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Enter into proper dancing form or frame. This frame is the mode of communication between you and your partner. Just as you need to keep the lines of communication open in a relationship, you need to make sure that your posture is open, but firm. Your hands should be at waist level, always ready to give guidance if you are the lead, or to receive instructions as the follower.

2. Step forward with your right foot on the second beat. This is actually simply bringing your right foot back to its original position after the rock step, which should have brought your right foot up off the floor slightly as you leaned back onto your left foot in the rock step position.

3. Step with your left foot on the third beat. This should bring your left foot even with your right and put you fully back into your beginning position.

4. Shift your weight from your left foot onto your right foot as the fourth beat begins.

5. Step with your right foot. You shouldn't be moving forward during this step, but should instead move your foot up and place it back down in the same place as if marching in place.

6. Shift your weight again towards the left foot during the sixth beat.

7. Step with your left foot on the seventh beat.

8. Shake things up by adding other swing dance moves to your routine once you are able to easily perform the basic steps.

9. Step back with your left foot on the first beat. This is the "rock" step.

Tips & Warnings

• When you and your partner connect physically, you are meant to move as one unit, so you must support each other. In swing dancing, there is a particular demand on each partner to provide balance since it is such a quick-stepping dance. You can help support each other by leaning back at your center of gravity when you are connected, much like you would if you were sitting down in a chair.