How to Learn the Jitterbug Dance
The jitterbug is a swing dance that became popular in the U.S. in the 1930s, and spread to Europe during World War II. Its popularity continued into the 1950s, with different versions of the dance appearing in different parts of the country--the Lindy Hop, Jive, West Coast Swing and East Coast Swing. Today, the jitterbug is still a classic dance that is sure to impress others on the dance floor. Almost anyone can learn the steps to this timeless dance--even those of us with two left feet.
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Instructions
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The Basic Six Count Jitterbug
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1
Face your partner and join hands. Men should step to their left for two counts, and women should step to the right at the same time.
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2
Step back to your right for two counts. Your partner should step back to her left at the same time.
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3
Step back with your left foot for one count. Your partner should step forward with her right foot to match your move at the same time.
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4
Step forward with your right foot for one count. Your partner should step back with her left foot to match your move at the same time. This is the basic six count step for dancing the Jitterbug.
The Left Pass
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5
Add some flair to the basic six count step you just learned. Step to your left with your left foot while turning your body a half turn to the left, and take your partner's right hand in your right hand. This should be done on counts one and two. Your partner should follow your lead.
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6
Step right with your right foot for counts three and four. Make sure to change hands with your partner, so you're now holding her left hand.
Step in back of your right heel with your left foot for count five.
Step in place with your right foot for count six. You and your partner now should be side by side.
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7
Step left with your left foot while swinging your left arm up to the right (diagonally), and pull your partner under to her left for counts seven and eight. Your partner should follow your lead.
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8
Step in place with your right foot for counts nine and 10. Step in back of your right heel with your left foot on count 11. Step in place with your right foot on count 12. Your partner should follow your lead.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice makes perfect. If you have never danced the jitterbug before, do not get discouraged if it does not feel graceful right away. Keep at it.
Once you and your partner are comfortable with these basic steps, add more flair, like turns, jumps and arm-crossing.
Be sure you are in appropriate physical shape to dance. If you will be dancing for extended periods of time, it is a good idea to stretch before and after dancing to avoid muscle pulls or other injury.
References
- Photo Credit jazz estate image by UFOFABRIK from Fotolia.com
