How to Do The Exchange in Swing Dancing

Swing dancing is not only an aerobic workout but also a display of skill and concentration. There are a number of ways to change positions within a swing dance routine, one of which is the exchange. The outcome of the exchange is that both partners will have reversed positions. This guide is from the lead dancer's perspective.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin approximately 3 feet away from partner facing each other with arms and hand interlocked. This means that your left hand holds your partner's right hand and your right hand is on the small of your partner's back and their left hand is on your right shoulder. This is the closed position in swing dance terminology.

2. Separate your right hand from partner's back as your partner releases their grip on your right shoulder. This is the open position in swing dancing. Your left hand and your partner's right hand are still together and both sets of feet are comfortably together.

3. Lead your partner towards you using your left hand as you move a side step to the left to get out of your partner's way.

4. Look down at your left arm as you move to the left in step 3. The left arm is bent at elbow and almost horizontal bring your partner's right arm high parallel with your face.

5. Step over your left leg with your right leg as partner moves forward as in step 3. You are passing each other at this point, the left arm is high, horizontal with your face, and your front is to your partner's back.

6. Bring your left leg around the back of your right leg as you allow your partner to slowly spin around using your hand as a balance. Your partner's right arm moves across their face as you turn.

7. Allow your partner to turn out so that they bring their right arm back in front of them. At the end of this step you are facing partner in the opposite starting positions from step 1 holding partner's right hand with your left hand.