BASIC PRINCIPLES

     Here are some basic principles that summarize a large part of what you will need to know when you start learning the twenty-five basic steps.  

     Principles that relate to posture, sounds, and steps:

  • Do not drag your feet—pick them up and put them down.

  • Keep your knees at least slightly flexed (bent).

  • Stay on the balls of your feet when required by the step.

  • When you shift weight from one foot to the other, do it quickly.

  • Do not bounce up and down unless required by the step.

  • Keep your feet under your body as much as possible.

  • Do not put weight on both feet unless required by the step.

  • Hold your head up and do not watch your feet or the floor.

  • Avoid arm and body movements that disrupt your balance.

  • Keep your arms flexible, but do not let them dangle or flop.

  • Keep your face, arms, hands, legs, ankles, and feet relaxed.

  • Try not to miss sounds, distort sounds, or add extra sounds.

  • Be able to start a step, turn, pattern, or combination on either foot.

  • Do not practice a step with one foot more than the other.

  • Completely finish one step before you start the next step.

  • Do not pause between steps unless a pause (hold) is required.

  • Being able to verbally describe a step will help you do the step.

  • Know how a step should be done before you practice doing it. 

  • Practicing steps correctly is the most reliable way to master them.

  • Do not try to increase your speed until you have mastered the step.

  • Getting exercise and having fun is more important than perfection.

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