box step

Box step is a basic dance step named after the pattern it creates on the floor, which is that of a square or box. It is used in a number of American Style ballroom dances: rumba, waltz, bronze-level foxtrot. While it can be performed individually, it is usually done with a partner. This is the most common dance step in the waltz. In international standard dance competition, there is a similar step called closed change.

In a typical example, the leader begins with the left foot and proceeds as follows.
*First half-box: forward-side-together
*Second half-box: backwards-side-together
Every step is with full weight transfer.

Rhythm varies. For example, it is "1-2-3, 4-5-6" in waltz and "slow quick quick, slow quick quick" in rumba.

In other dances (and in variations) the box may start from the left or right foot, either back or forward, or even sidewise. For example, in the figure of the leader steps (starting with the left foot) "left-together-back, right-together-forward".

In waltz

For the left box, the leader starts with his feet closed. On beat 1 he steps forward with his left foot, then he steps to the side with his right foot on 2, closes his left to his right foot on 3; steps back with his right foot on 4, to the side with his left foot on 5, and closes his right to his left foot on 6. During the second and fifth step the foot is supposed to travel along two sides of the box, rather than along its diagonal.

The follower also starts with her feet closed. On beat 1 she steps back with her right foot, then she steps to the side with her left foot on 2, closes her right to her left foot on 3; steps forward with her left foot on 4, to the side with her right foot on 5, and closes her left to her right foot on 6.

The right box consists of the same steps only mirrored, that is, left and right feet are exchanged for both leader and follower.

In popular culture

This dance was featured in an episode of ''Curious George'' called "School of Dance". George first saw the Renkins doing it, then he taught it to Bill, the Quints, the Man with the Yellow Hat, and at the end, Allie.

See also

* Jazz box, a similar footprint pattern, but with cross-steps

References

{{reflist

Social dance steps