Welcome to the vibrant world of swing dancing! Whether you're stepping onto the dance floor for the first time or looking to refine your basics, these five foundational moves form the core of Lindy Hop and swing dance culture. Master them, and you'll have the tools to dance confidently at any social event.
A note before you begin: Swing dancing is a partnered art form best learned in person. Written descriptions can guide your understanding, but nothing replaces feedback from a qualified instructor. Be mindful of your partner's physical comfort, keep your frame relaxed rather than rigid, and never force a movement.
1. The Swingout
The Swingout is the cornerstone of Lindy Hop—the move you'll see most often on the social dance floor and the foundation for countless variations. It creates that exhilarating, slingshot feeling unique to swing.
What makes it work: The Swingout is an 8-count rotational move danced in a "slot." The lead initiates momentum on counts 1–2, redirects the follow on 3–4, and both partners complete a rotational pass on 5–8 before reconnecting. The follow's swivel on 5-6 gives the move its characteristic flair.
Key elements to practice:
- Maintain a relaxed but responsive frame
- Keep the movement within your shared slot so you don't collide with neighboring dancers
- Develop a shared sense of pulse and bounce
- Allow centrifugal momentum to do the work—don't muscle your partner around
Common pitfall: Gripping your partner's hand too tightly. This causes tension and can lead to shoulder strain. Keep your connection elastic.
2. The Charleston
Born in the 1920s and still beloved today, the Charleston brings playful energy and sharp footwork to your dancing. Beginners should know that "Charleston" refers to several related forms.
Two styles to start with:
- 20s Charleston: A solo or partnered pattern with twisted knees and forward kicks on off-beats, danced to faster tempos
- 30s Charleston: Often danced side-by-side or in tandem with a partner, using a smoother 4-count kick-step pattern
Basic 30s Charleston footwork:
- Step back on one foot while kicking forward with the other
- Switch sides on each count, keeping your weight poised over the balls of your feet
- Add arm swings that oppose your leg movement for balance and style
Tip: Charleston works equally well solo or with a partner, making it perfect for practicing alone at home.
3. The Lindy Circle
The Lindy Circle is a smooth, continuous rotation in closed position that showcases partnership connection. It's invaluable for transitioning between other moves and navigating crowded floors.
What it actually is: A 6- or 8-count pattern where partners rotate together as a unit while maintaining closed position. It is not simply walking in a circle side by side.
How to approach it:
- Begin in closed position with your weight slightly forward
- The lead initiates rotation through body movement rather than arm-steering
- Both partners take small, directed steps that contribute to the shared arc
- Maintain your frame and keep your centers connected throughout
Why it matters: The Lindy Circle teaches you to move as one unit with your partner—an essential skill for everything that follows.
4. The Texas Tommy
This fun, dynamic move adds flair and rotation to your dancing. Originating from San Francisco's Barbary Coast in the early 20th century, the Texas Tommy is often a beginner's first introduction to turns and arm movements.
The basic shape:
- Start in open position, connected with one hand
- The lead raises their arm, creating a window for the follow to turn underneath
- As the follow completes their rotation, the lead adjusts their own footwork to maintain the partnership's position
- Reconnect in closed position or side-by-side, then continue into your next move—often another Swingout
Safety note: The lead's raised arm should track smoothly; don't pull or whip your partner through the turn. The follow controls their own rotation speed.
5. The Shim Sham
No list of swing essentials would be complete without the Shim Sham. This vernacular jazz line dance is performed at social dances worldwide, often as a communal finale to an evening.
What it is: A choreographed sequence of jazz steps—including shuffles, crossovers, and boogie backs—performed in unison by a group. Despite borrowing some steps from tap vocabulary, it is not a tap dance; you can do it in regular swing dance shoes.
Why beginners should learn it:
- It builds rhythmic confidence and body control
- It connects you to swing history and community
- You can practice it solo, anytime, anywhere
How to start: Ask a local instructor or experienced dancer to walk you through the standard choreography.
