The shuffle is the ABC of tap dance. It consists of two sounds: a brush forward with the ball of the foot (sh), followed by a backward brush or spank (uffle).

• Keep your knees slightly bent for better control
• Initiate the movement from your hip, not just your foot
• Practice slowly to ensure clean, distinct sounds

A weight transfer that forms the connective tissue between steps. Step on the ball of one foot, then quickly change weight to the other foot.

• Keep it light - it's a quick transfer, not a stomp
• Can be done in place or while moving
• Often combined with shuffles or other steps

The fundamental rhythm pattern that forms the basis of countless tap routines. Start with the single time step:

• Stamp (whole foot)
• Hop (on same foot)
• Step (other foot)
• Brush step (shuffle step)

A flashy traveling step that combines shuffles with jumps. Break it down:

• Shuffle (right foot)
• Step (right foot)
• Leap onto left foot while right foot brushes forward
• Step (right foot)

Creates beautiful flowing movement across the floor.

The signature move that makes it look like you're dancing backward while moving forward. Essentially a backward brush while jumping.

• Start with small jumps to get the motion
• The sound should be two clear beats: brush and landing
• Engage your core for height and control

The holy grail of tap steps - creating a wing-like sound by sliding the foot outward while jumping.

• Start with stationary wings before attempting traveling
• The motion comes from rotating the hip joint
• Three sounds: brush out, brush in, land

Don't get discouraged - even professionals continuously work on perfecting their wings!

Shuffle ball change (right) → Shuffle ball change (left) → Single time step → Maxi Ford traveling right → Pullback × 4