How to Perform a Coaster Swing Step Dance Move

The Coaster Step is one of many steps designed to punctuate the end of another, more dramatic swing dance move. Though it may be difficult to work into a West Coast Swing routine, it is a popular flourish to a Lindy Hop or East Coast Swing dance move.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Lead a Coaster Step

1. Perform a full swing dance move. The Coaster Step is actually a very simple closing step, so it isn't meant to be used all by itself. The best time to use a Coaster Step as the lead is when a whip turn has been completed, but the lead is not quite in proper alignment. The Coaster Step will naturally move you slightly to the left, so it is an excellent remedy for this kind of situation.

2. Cross your right foot behind your left foot. Similar to a Sailor Shuffle, if you perform this move, you will be shifting your position slightly to the left.

3. Step to the side with your left foot.

4. Bring your right foot together with your left by stepping right.

5. Distribute your weight evenly between both of your feet, and regain your balance. From this point, you will launch off into yet another exciting swing dance move, so you will want to be thoroughly prepared to take on the challenge before continuing.

Follow a Coaster Step

1. Perform a half or complete swing dance move. The best time for the follow to use a Coaster Step is actually in the middle of a whip turn. If she finds that she has shifted too far to the right, then she can insert a quick Coaster Step to help get her back on track to complete the whip turn without interfering with her partner.

2. Step back with your left foot.

3. Close the gap created when you stepped back by bringing your right foot next to your left.

4. Step forward on your left foot.

5. Realign your frame and posture, allowing your body to stand on both feet equally. Be sure your frame is supporting both you and your partner, since you'll be moving again in just another beat.

Tips & Warnings

• It is possible to use a Coaster Step in West Coast Swing. However, the idea is to stop the forward motion before the sixth beat, so you must perform the Coaster Step instead of an anchor step. If you do the Coaster Step at the end of a phase, and end the sixth beat with a forward motion, you will likely be tossed out on your ear from a West Coast Swing dance hall.

• This move has the potential to be rather unflattering on the female partner if it is done at an inappropriate time, especially in a West Coast Swing dance routine. The requirement to stay within the slot of the West Coast Swing may cause her to stick her rump out after most moves, which judges will inevitably mark off for in competitions.