How to Do the Pretzel

This is a variation of a basic cowboy couple's dance. Hold hands throughout the steps to give the dance its twist.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Bandannas
• Country-western Shirts
• Cowboy Boots
• Jeans
• Wide Belts
• Bob Wills CD
• Christy Lane Dance Videos

1. Stand opposite your partner holding hands.

2. Move your hands out to your sides.

3. Swing one hand above your head and the other down toward your knees. Keep holding hands.

4. Turn 180 degrees around, so you now face away from each other.

5. Drop your hands back to your sides again.

6. Bring one hand up to your shoulder. This will be one partner's right hand and the other's left.

7. Turn another 180 degrees, bringing the bent arm past your face and the other over your head. Face your partner.

8. Spin your partner with one arm.

9. Unspin your partner.

10. Spin your partner the other direction.

11. Unspin again. Continue holding hands.

12. Repeat.

Tips & Warnings

• There are no traditional "steps" to this dance. It's more of a consistent whirl.

• Either partner can take over the lead during this dance. Be alert.

• People of radically different heights may find this dance difficult to do smoothly.