How to Do the Sugar Push in Male West Coast Wing Dancing

Influenced by Lindy Hop, an African-American dance style that began in New York in the 1920s, West coast swing is gaining popularity once again across America. A partner dance, the characteristic elastic movements of West coast swing that made it famous allow dance partners to improvise on the dance floor. In just a few basic steps, you can add the sugar push to your men's West coast swing routine.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin the men's step of the sugar push by lifting your left hand and holding your partner's hand gently in yours. When you are ready to begin the move, pull her gently towards you as you step back with your left foot.

2. Take two short steps back and on the third, simply bring your left foot in to meet your right. Step forward one full step with your left foot and bring your right foot in behind and slightly to the side of your left.

3. Triple-step beginning with a tap with the left foot and followed by a right foot tap and a left foot tap again. Keep your heel up on the first two taps, only lowering it on the third as you transition and begin the men's sugar push once again.

4. Keep your right hand lifted throughout the movement, using your own personal style to add to the move. As you become more comfortable in the movement, you can add more of your own personal touches to this and other west coast swing steps. Use the sugar push as a basic step, or as a transition to other more complicated dance moves.