Free Basic

The basic step isn’t limited to just going forwards and backwards, although this makes a good starting point. You can also change directions. This can be used to navigate the dance space with your partner, and can be a nice way to express musicality and creativity with the most foundational of the foundations.

We combine the concept of Compass StepCompass StepThe fundamental footwork mechanic of stepping and pivoting on the ball of the foot to change direction. with the Basic Back and ForthBasic Back and ForthAdding forward-and-back to the basic step pattern. movement to create this idea of the free basic.

The first half-basic of the follow’s Basic Back and ForthBasic Back and ForthAdding forward-and-back to the basic step pattern. is the same as the last half-basic of the lead’s. The Control StepControl StepA step that absorbs and redirects energy with energy on the ball of the foot. Part of Stepping for both the lead and follow offer an opportunity to do rotations. By lifting the non-control foot while your weight is on the control foot, you can pivot and change directions. Properly leading the similar but opposite movement allows you to turn together.

Although it’s nice to try this with small angle changes at first, you can also do full 180 degree rotations with the Compass StepCompass StepThe fundamental footwork mechanic of stepping and pivoting on the ball of the foot to change direction., although it involves a bit of spatial awareness for your feet. After starting out with smaller rotations, you can slowly increase. As a lead, see if you can time the torsion properly so that the follow pivots without needing to think much about it. And follows, make sure that you allow the pivot to happen on the Control StepControl StepA step that absorbs and redirects energy with energy on the ball of the foot. Part of Stepping by not putting weight on the other foot.

I would suggest it to be a good habit to not lock yourself into doing basic back and forth and get into the habit of having your basic be moving. You can really get a lot out of the basic step especially when you play with dynamics involving level and energy.