How to Do Basic Box Samba Steps

The box step can be performed not only in the waltz, but in other dances such as the foxtrot and samba. For the samba, the movements are done with 3 steps to 2 beats of music and the count is 1-and-2, 1-and-2 for one complete box.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Man's Part

1. Rise up on the balls of your feet prior to count 1.

2. Step forward on your left foot, landing on the ball of your foot and then setting your heel down for count 1

3. Step up and to the right on your right foot, staying on the ball of your foot, then bring your left foot over to touch your right foot, staying on the balls of both feet on count 2.

4. Set both heels down at the end of count 2.

5. Repeat steps 1 through 4 in reverse (stepping back on the right foot) to complete one box.

Woman's Part

6. Rise up on the balls of your feet prior to count 1.

7. Step back on your right foot, landing on the ball of your foot and then setting your heel down on count 1.

8. Step back on to your left foot, staying on the ball of your foot, then bring your right foot over to touch your left foot, staying on the balls of both feet on count 2.

9. Set both heels down at the end of count 2.

10. Repeat steps 1 through 4 in reverse (stepping forward on the left foot) to complete one box.

Tips & Warnings

• Practice the samba box step until you can perform it smoothly, rising up and down instead of bouncing up and down as you move.
• On count 2, don't set your heel down before bringing your feet together.