How to Do a Double Paddle and Roll in Tap Dancing

The double paddle and roll step in tap dancing constitutes intricate and close footwork, which may seem intimidating when a dancer first attempts it; however, once you get the hang of it you will love doing these steps because they sound so good when you're executing them. Keep your ankle flexible so that you you are able to dig, brush and heel drop all on one foot.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tap shoes

1. Dig your right heel to the front and immediately brush back on your right foot. Do another heel dig to the front on your right foot.

2. Brush back on your right foot and step down on your right.

3. Drop right heel.

4. Dig your left foot to the front followed by a back brush on your left foot and another heel dig on the left to the front.

5. Brush back on your left and then step down on your left. Drop left heel.

6. Put it all together: Heel dig, back brush, heel dig, back brush, step, heel drop; heel dig, back brush, heel dig, back brush, step, heel drop. Think about the count: 1e and a 2 e and a 3 e and a.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch the dance demonstration found in the resource section.

Resources

• Tap Dancing Demo Sarah McLellan