Bridge the gap with these focused practice techniques
Making the leap from beginner to intermediate Irish dancer requires more than just learning new steps—it demands refining your technique, building strength, and developing the musicality that brings dances to life. If you've mastered the basic reel and light jig steps but feel stuck at a plateau, these five essential drills will help you break through to the next level.
1 The Crossed-Cross Drill
Many beginners struggle with maintaining crossed positions while executing steps. This drill isolates the fundamental crossed position that's essential for reels, jigs, and especially treble jigs.
How to practice: Stand beside a barre or chair for support. Cross your right foot over your left, ensuring your thighs are squeezed together and your feet are fully crossed at the ankles. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Once comfortable, add small rises up onto your toes while maintaining the crossed position.
2 Toe-Down Precision Training
The clarity of your toe-downs can make or break your technique. Intermediate dancers execute sharp, precise toe-downs that contribute to the distinctive Irish dance sound and appearance.
How to practice: Stand facing a mirror. Practice placing your toe directly behind your supporting heel with controlled, deliberate movements. Count "1-2-3-4" with a distinct pause on each placement. Start slowly, focusing on perfect form, then gradually increase speed while maintaining precision.
3 Elevation & Balloon Jumps
Intermediate dancing requires elevation—that effortless-looking lift that makes performances appear light and airborne. This drill builds the explosive power needed for advanced steps.
How to practice: From a prepared position (feet together, arms by sides), explode upward into a straight jump, pointing your toes in the air. Land softly with bent knees. Repeat 10 times, focusing on maximum height and controlled landings. Progress to adding a click with your heels while in the air.
4 Rhythm & Timing Isolation
Musicality separates beginners from intermediate dancers. This drill helps you internalize rhythms so your dancing becomes more musical and less mechanical.
How to practice: Using a metronome set to a slow tempo (start with 100 BPM), practice basic steps like the rising step or sevens. Focus on hitting each beat precisely. Once comfortable, increase the tempo by 5 BPM increments. Practice with different time signatures—6/8 for jigs and 4/4 for reels.
5 Turn & Spiral Progression
Turns and spirals add dynamism to intermediate routines. This progression builds the core strength and spotting technique needed for controlled, multiple rotations.
How to practice: Start with basic three-step turns along a straight line. Focus on spotting (fixing your eyes on one point as long as possible before whipping your head around). Once comfortable, progress to linked turns—executing two or three turns consecutively. Finally, practice turning on the spot, maintaining your center.
Ready to Elevate Your Dancing?
Consistency is key—incorporate these drills into your practice routine 3-4 times per week, and you'll notice significant improvements in your technique, strength, and confidence within just a few weeks. Remember that progress in Irish dance is a journey, and every great dancer was once exactly where you are now.
Your intermediate dancing journey starts with these focused drills—happy practicing!
