From Zero to Reel
Essential Tips and Simple Drills to Kickstart Your Irish Dance Journey
So you've heard the infectious rhythm of a reel, seen the mesmerizing precision of a dancer's feet, and felt the pull to try it yourself. Welcome! Starting Irish dance is an exciting adventure that blends athleticism, artistry, and rich tradition. This guide is your first céilí—a friendly gathering to equip you with the foundational knowledge and practices you need to begin on the right foot (literally!).
Laying the Foundation: Mindset & Gear
Before you even attempt a hop or a skip, let's set the stage for success. Your attitude and preparation are just as important as your footwork.
Embrace the "Beginner's Brain"
Your first steps won't look like Riverdance, and that's perfect. Irish dance has a unique posture and movement style that can feel unnatural at first. Be patient with your body as it learns a new language of movement. Celebrate small wins—like holding your arms still for an entire exercise or finally distinguishing a hop from a skip.
Footwear & Flooring
You don't need hard shoes on day one. Start in socks, ballet shoes, or lightweight ghillies (soft shoes). The key is to feel the floor. Find a safe, non-slip surface—a wooden floor, low-pile carpet, or a quality dance mat. Avoid concrete or slippery tiles.
The Posture is Paramount
Imagine a string pulling you up tall from the crown of your head. Shoulders back and down, chest lifted, core engaged. Arms stay relaxed but held firmly at your sides, with a slight bend at the elbow. This posture is your home base; you'll return to it again and again.
Your First Drills: Building Muscle Memory
These drills isolate the fundamental movements. Practice them slowly and correctly before trying to add speed or music.
1. The Point & Click
The Goal: Master foot placement and leg crossing.
- Stand in posture, feet in first position (heels together, toes apart).
- Slowly point your right foot directly in front of you, tapping the toe on the floor.
- Return to first position.
- Now, cross your right foot over your left and tap the toe to the left side of your left foot (this is a "click" or crossed position).
- Repeat on the left side. Focus on keeping your standing leg straight and your upper body still.
Drill Focus: Control, turnout, and understanding front vs. crossed positions.
2. The Basic Hop
The Goal: Develop the essential bouncing rhythm and leg action.
- Stand on your right leg, left foot pointed behind you (just off the floor).
- Perform a small, controlled hop on the right foot.
- As you hop, swing the left leg slightly forward (knee straight, foot pointed).
- Land back on the right foot, returning the left foot to the back.
- Repeat 8 times on the right, then 8 on the left. Keep the hop low and rhythmic.
Drill Focus: Balance, rhythm, and the fundamental "hop-and-swing" action found in reels and light jigs.
3. The Side Step (Sevens)
The Goal: Learn to travel sideways with control, a staple in many beginner steps.
- Start in first position.
- Step sideways to the right with your right foot.
- Close your left foot to meet your right, returning to first position.
- Repeat this "step-close" sequence 4 times to the right, then 4 times to the left.
- Add a tiny hop on the "close" to add the classic bounce.
Drill Focus: Lateral movement, weight transfer, and introducing the constant bounce.
Putting It Together: Your First Mini-Reel
Let's combine elements into a simple 8-bar sequence. Practice without music first, counting 1-2-3-4, 5-6-7-8 out loud.
- Bars 1 & 2: 8 "Basic Hops" on your right foot.
- Bars 3 & 4: 8 "Basic Hops" on your left foot.
- Bars 5 & 6: 4 "Side Steps" moving to the right.
- Bars 7 & 8: 4 "Side Steps" moving to the left.
Congratulations! You've just danced the skeleton of a reel step. Once this feels comfortable, find a slow reel tune (around 100-110 BPM) and try to move in time with the music.
Ready for the Next Step?
The world of Irish dance is vast and welcoming. The absolute best way to progress is to find a certified TCRG (teacher) in your area or online. They will ensure your technique is safe and correct, provide personalized feedback, and introduce you to the incredible community that makes this art form so special. Now, take a deep breath, put on a tune, and enjoy the journey from zero to reel!
