Question: How to Dance the Charleston
I have no problem alternating my legs back and forth. I have no problem turning my toes inward and outward. However, when I try to combine the leg movements with my toes facing inward and outward, I don't know which segment of the step goes inward or outward. Please break the steps down and help me!
Answer: The Charleston, first introduced during the 1920s, is a fast-paced, energetic dance step that's tons of fun to perform. When learning the basic steps of the Charleston, it helps to break the steps down and try them in slow motion.
Let's count the sequece "and one, and one, and one..." with each step and touch occurring on the "one" count. Now, turn your toes outward on the "ones" and inward on the "ands."
- Step forward with the right foot, toes facing outward on the "touch" beat.
- Turn toes inward as left toe moves forward.
- Touch forward with left toe, toes facing outward again.
- Turn toes inward as left foot moves back.
- Step back with the left foot, toes facing outward.
- Turn toes inward as right foot move back.
- Touch back with right toe, toes facing outward.
So, toes alternate in and out rather quickly...this seems confusing but try it a few times and I think you'll have it. Try thinking about the steps in terms of fixing your balance at the start and finish of each step, allowing the middle steps to flow naturally. When you think you have the basic steps mastered, try picking up the pace...speed is the key!
