Foxtrot

Instead of starting this page with Figure 1 the Basic step. (That's next), Let's look at a combination of step that you could use on the dance floor.

Get an overview of this combination in your mind and then we will look at Step 1.

Note: Start with the Man's right shoulder beside the Nearest wall and give enough room to dance a Basic step.  This Combination is Basic, Promenade, Left Rock Turn, Box, and Basic.   When you dance it a Second time you will get 2 Basics in a row. Don't leave off the Second Basic.

This is the first figure of social Foxtrot, notice the dance hold.  The demonstrators are using an advanced hold.  If you are a new dancer separate the two bodies and hold each other by the elbows.

Note: Each partner changes weight 4 times, Leader's start each pattern by stepping with your Left foot, Follower's with your RIght foot.

The Left Rock turn is a "Corner" step, it allows you to change the direction of movement or room alignment.

So you're heading down a wall into a corner, dancing your Basics, the Left Rock Turn can angle you down the next wall.

This pattern can also be used as an Emergency step to avoid collisions with other dancers.

Note: try to step under your partner and not around them, turn more on the rocking action, try not to rotate on the side steps.

The promenade is a core figure that shows up in all dances.

It is sometimes described as both partners moving forwards and in the Foxtrot is also called Conversation position.

A good promenade position is worthwhile challenge.

I think you can judge the level of a couples dancing by looking at their promenade.

Note: try to twist only the head and feet leaving your torsos still facing each other, this takes flexibility, coordination and practice.

The Foxtrot box has a change of rhythm from the Basic.  The Box is counted Slow Quick Quick, Slow Quick Quick for a total of 8 beats of music vs 6 beats for the basic.

Note: The Foxtrot Box does collect the feet together on beats 2 and 6, Waltz and Rumba do not collect the feet after moving forwards or backwards.