How to Move in Irish Step Dancing

Irish step dancing is characterized by precise, rapid feet and leg movements while the arms and upper body remain relatively still. Step dancing is performed by solo dancers as opposed to set dancing by couples and foursomes. Irish step dancing closely follows the percussive beats of traditional Irish music. However beginners often start by learning basic soft shoe steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Close the hands by wrapping the fingers around the thumbs. Pull the shoulders back, arms straight at the sides with the elbows pulled back.

2. Turn the feet out so that they form a V. Cross the feet with the heel of the front foot is in front of the toe of the back foot. Raise up on the toes to be ready to dance.

3. Make a step, the first of four basic moves, by setting one foot on the floor while lifting the other foot, much like walking. Stay on the toes.

4. Hop by pushing off on one foot and landing on the same foot. Keep the other foot up and tucked behind the knee of the hopping leg.

5. Leap by pushing off straight up on one foot and landing on the other foot. Raise the left leg, bent at the knee, when leaping on the right foot. Next, land on the left foot. Reverse when leaping on the left foot.

6. Jump by pushing off the floor and landing on both feet. Take care to push off on the toes and land on the toes. Try to land as quietly as possible.

7. Keep the upper body still when stepping, hopping, leaping and jumping. Hold the arms at the sides and the shoulders back but keep them relaxed.