How to Do the Basic Box Step

The basic box step is identical to a waltz.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Leader

1. Stand opposite your partner.
2. Place your right hand on your partner's waist. Extend your left hand, palm up, to your side with your arm bent.
3. Grasp your partner's hand in a loose grip.
4. Wait for the music to start.
5. On the first beat, step forward gracefully with your left foot.
6. On the second beat, quickly step forward and to the right with your right foot. The motion should look like an upside-down letter L.
7. Shift your weight to your right foot. Keep your left foot stationary.
8. On the third beat, slide your left foot quickly over to your right and stand with your feet together.
9. On the fourth beat, step slowly back with your right foot.
10. On the fifth beat, quickly step back and to the left with your left foot, this time tracing a backward L. Shift your weight to your left foot.
11. On the final beat, quickly slide your right foot toward your left and bring your feet together.
12. Repeat.

Follower

13. Follow the leader.
14. Place your left hand on his right shoulder.
15. Bend your right elbow and place the palm of your right hand lightly on his outstretched palm.
16. Do the opposite of what your partner does. Move your right foot back when the leader moves his left foot forward on the first beat.
17. Continue following, in reverse, the directions for the leader.

Tips & Warnings

• The box step can be incorporated into many dances.
• You have to vary this step or it can get boring quickly.