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Ballroom dances3 minutes

Quickstep basic step: Learn the right sequence of steps

By Bernhard De LucaUpdated

In a nutshell
  • The Quickstep basic step is based on a six-step sequence with the rhythm slow, quick, quick, slow.
  • The heart of the movement is the chassé, where the feet are closed and opened again in a fluid sideways motion.
  • Weight shifting occurs precisely over the balls of the feet to generate the necessary dynamics and lightness for the high tempo.

The Quickstep is lively, fast, and full of energy. With the right guidance, you will master the characteristic footwork and the typical chassé in no time, without any stumbling at all.

What you need for the Quickstep basic step

  • Dance shoes with leather soles or smooth synthetic soles
  • A partner to practice the steps together
  • A sense of rhythm for the fast 4/4 time of swing music
  • A free piece of parquet or smooth floor to practice on

Why the Quickstep basic step is your foundation

The Quickstep is the most dynamic of all ballroom dances and brings pure joy to the dance floor with its high tempo. Anyone wanting to learn this dance will quickly realize that the key to success lies in rhythmic precision and the correct weight transfer. If you are practicing ballroom dance steps for beginners, the Quickstep is the perfect choice to take your footwork and coordination to a new level.

Before you venture into advanced choreographies, you must internalize the basics. The dance is based on an interplay of slow steps and fast, flowing chassés. It is crucial that you transfer your weight cleanly from one foot to the other so you do not lose your balance during quick changes of direction. Anyone wanting to master the basics of ballroom dancing in the learn ballroom dancing section lays the ideal foundation for all further swing dances with the Quickstep basic step.

Master the Quickstep basic step in 4 steps

  1. Starting the slow forward step

    As the leading partner, you start with your right foot forward, and as the following person, with your left foot backward. This step is slow and spans two beats of the music.

  2. Taking the first quick side step

    Take a quick step to the side with your left foot (the following person with the right foot). Stay consciously on the ball of your foot to maintain the lightness needed for the tempo.

  3. Closing the Chassé cleanly

    Quickly close your right foot to your left foot (the following person closes left to right). At this moment, both feet are directly next to each other, and the weight remains on the balls of your feet.

  4. Step out with the slow step

    Take a slow step forward and to the left with your left foot (the following person steps back with their right foot). Lower your heel in a controlled manner at the end of the step to complete the movement.

The most important do's and don'ts in Quickstep

Correct

  • Dance the quick steps on the balls of your feet
  • Close your feet completely during the chassé
  • Extend the slow step over two beats

Wrong

  • Land on your heels during quick steps
  • Only bring your feet together during side steps
  • Become frantic and get ahead of the beat

Your checklist for Quickstep training

Before you start

Preparation

While dancing

Execution

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. The Quickstep basic step is danced to the rhythm Slow, Quick, Quick, Slow. A slow step covers two beats of the music, while the quick steps of the chassé each take up only one beat.

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