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Discofox moves4 minutes

Discofox Basket: Guide to the iconic move

By Mary De LucaUpdated

In a nutshell
  • The basket figure in Discofox is a classic wrap figure, where the partner is guided closely to the right side of the lead through a turn.
  • The decisive impulse is provided by a fluid hand change before the wrapping, where the partners hold each other with both hands.
  • The figure is resolved by gently turning the partner back into the open dance position, without interrupting the basic step.
  • For an elegant basket, constant body tension from both partners is required, as well as sensitive leading without pulling or pushing.

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The basket figure brings flair and elegance to your Discofox. With the right technique, the wrapping and unwrapping will be fluid, without you getting tangled up in each other's arms.

What you need beforehand

  • Secure Discofox basic step in 1-2-tap rhythm
  • Good basic tension in the upper body and arms
  • Sufficient space on the dance floor for a turn
  • A dance partner to practice the sequences together

Why the basket is the perfect introduction to wrap figures

The basket is one of the absolute classics in Discofox. It is a so-called wrap figure, where the partner is pulled close to the lead through skillful guiding and is practically wrapped in their arms. This position not only looks elegant, but also creates a particularly harmonious connection on the dance floor. In contrast to more complex patterns like the pretzel or the carousel, the basket remains compact and can be danced excellently even on crowded dance floors. Anyone wanting to master Discofox wrap figures will find the perfect introduction here.

The success of the figure depends on the right body tension and precise timing during the hand change. Since the partners get very close to each other while wrapping, sensitive leading is crucial. The leader must give the impulse for the turn at the right moment without throwing the follower off balance. If both partners keep their steps synchronized, a fluid movement is created that looks effortless and can be wonderfully integrated into any figure combination.

A dance instructor shows a dancer a sequence of movements during training in a dance studio
The correct hand position at eye level ensures balance when wrapping into the basket.

6 steps to the perfect lead

  1. Switch to double hand hold

    Dance in the closed basic step. The leader opens the hold and takes the partner's right hand with their right hand, while their left hand holds their left hand, creating a crossed double hand hold.

  2. Opening the gate and giving an impulse

    The leader raises their left hand slightly to open the gate for the turn. With a gentle impulse, they guide the partner's right hand in front of their body to initiate the turn to the left.

  3. Wrapping the partner

    The follower turns to the left under the raised arm until she is positioned closely to the right side of the leader. Both hands remain held, and the arms now lie around her like a basket.

  4. Keeping the basic step in the cuddle position

    In this close position, the couple dances one or more basic steps together in the usual rhythm. The physical closeness requires small, controlled steps on the spot.

  5. Initiating the unwinding

    The leader lifts their left arm slightly again and gently guides the partner's right hand outwards. The partner turns clockwise to unwind from the cuddle position.

  6. Finding your way back to the basic step

    After the partner has finished the turn, the couple returns to the open starting position. The hands can now switch back to the normal Discofox hold.

Do's and don'ts for dancing in a closed position

Correct

  • Keep your arms loosely bent
  • Maintain the rhythm of the basic step
  • Keep gentle eye contact while wrapping
  • Lead the turn across the body

Wrong

  • Locking your partner's arms out stiffly
  • Shortening steps due to rushing
  • Turning completely away during the spin
  • Pulling your partner into position with force

Your checklist for the perfect dance hold

Before the figure

Preparation

While wrapping

During

After unwinding

Arrival

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. The hand change occurs directly before the wrapping during the basic step. The leader changes from the closed position to the double-hand hold by grabbing the partner's right hand with his left hand and taking over the partner's left hand with his right hand.

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