I love being twirled around the dance floor by a man, even if he’s just learning along with me. I’m still a newbie after decades of trying 🤣 Men who enjoy dancing and know how to make a woman look smooth on the dance floor while having a fun laugh are such a turn on! 🔥 🥰
I really appreciate you visually explaining the "shuffle version". That's how I see majority of people here in Buffalo, NY two-step. It makes so much sense to explain why there are so many toe-stepping and miss-connections when the dance itself isn't being performed kinesthetically. I applaud your way to break down the dances in ways that I think everyone will understand. I will continue to follow you and your videos and look forward to more!
Awesome! We've been country dancing a really long time and it seems that the shuffly version has become more prevalent just in recent years. We love that more people are dancing now and encourage everyone to get out on the dance floor. We also want to help people be successful on the dance floor. It's so much more fun when it's done well. Thanks for watching!
allisa i learned the same two step near camp Lajune n.c . heads up, the country two step is a backwards fox trot .the fox trot is slo slo qwike qwik. the count for countr is qwik qwik slow slow. we all can thank charly chaplan for these dance st
Great explanation of both types. I dance two step like you do, but see lots of people doing the shuffle version which I never really understood. This is a great explanation and comparison that shows the benefits of passing your feet without putting people on the defensive if they have learned the shuffle version. People tend to prefer what they first learn, so if we'd like to encourage people to try the two step with passing feet so they can enjoy the hundreds of possible patterns, it helps by not making them defend what they already know.
I (Anthony) have been dancing and teaching country dance full time since the mid 90s. I had never even seen the shuffley two step until just a few years ago. The best I can figure out is that it’s actually two step blended with tejano dancing. On the other hand, we love that country dancing has had a surge of popularity recently. We believe that it will work it’s way back to it’s roots as these newer dancers continue to improve and experience dancing outside of just their local bars. The shuffley two step is very limiting and eventually the ones that dance it will try to grow beyond what the structure of what they’re doing will physically allow. That’s when they’ll have to choose to stick with what they know yet grow stagnant in their dancing, or grow into the two step that we teach which will open the door to being able to accomplish so much more.
I first learned to country dance in 2014 at a place in Fairbanks, Alaska called Kodiak Jack's. That particular dance bar was almost exclusively frequented by enlisted military personnel. Army and Air Force. As such, the patrons of that particular country place came from all over the country. What I first learned, what you call 'the shuffle', was introduced to me as 'the GI two-step' or 'the simplified two-step'. The reason given to me for this was that it was the lowest common denominator of all of the different two-step styles from around the country. I don't know if you have any insight into that or if there's any truth to it but it made complete sense to me at the time. It also meant that by learning it, I was able to dance with any partner from any geographical area. I have been dancing that way (the shuffle), for the last 5 and a 1/2 years. I really don't feel like I have become stagnant for any reason other than that at a certain point the difficulty in finding Increasingly competent partners creates a bottleneck plateau. An additional bit of insight for why you tend to find the shuffle at bars is that when drinking is involved, dancing laterally allows both partners to keep an eye out for other dancers. A dance floor at a bar can be quite chaotic and if you are moving linearly as shown in this video, the woman really can't add much to the general observation. She can't see what's behind her. Moving to the side, both she and her partner can see what they are moving toward. When dealing with drunk people, four eyes are better than two. Oh, and it's much easier to introduce first time inebriated dancers to the basics with 1,2,1 than quick quick, slow slow. '2' is about the highest number that a drunk person is able to count to while learning something entirely new that involves moving. You're dealing with professional dancers and bright eye'd bushy tailed dance students... go teach a bunch of drunk first timers and tell me which is actually the easier style.
I agree that no matter what, it’s 4 steps (quick quick slow slow). But you can still shuffle and do all the turns because the slow slow are still progressive, and the turns are done after the 2nd slow. We shuffle and turn all the time smoothly in Texas.
True story: There was this guy who was a former dance champion. He had won all these awards and was known all around the world as one of the best of his day. Late one night, he was driving home after a dance competition and got into a terrible accident. Due to his injuries, the doctors were forced to amputate one of his legs. For a dancer, this was obviously devastating. Though he would never compete ever again, he did continue to tour the dance circuit as a judge. He would, in between heats, put his crutches down and take a partner out to the floor and social dance by hopping and turning on one foot. It was fun and inspirational to watch him dance that way. In the other hand, hopping on one foot would not be a dance technique we would recommend for anyone blessed with two feet. There are some things that could be done and others that could not. BTW … we are in Texas.
have watched a few of your videos & I like the imagery that the words you use brings up - it's like "he's leading but she's really in charge" - reminds me of dustin lynch cowboys and angels
I live in Austin Texas and enjoy the dance hall’s. Glad I realized there are so many styles. Some people make me question if I’m doing it right just because they do the quick quick slow slow or the 1,2, 1 like I do
Thanks for watching and commenting. Yeah ... people do a lot of weird stuff and call it Two Step hahaha. If, on the other hand, you want to improve your Two Step and "make stuff work"... we recommend not closing your feet. The 1,2,1 thing doesn't bother us if that's how it makes sense to you to count it. You could literally count it in the names of zoo animals and it doesn't matter... but technically you can't count 4 weight changes with 3 words.
Anthony & Rose great work, I put you up there with the top few instructors I really take seriously on here. I have been trying to learn to dance for years. I have spent countless hours in dance studios and with instructors. I have learned the basic 2step as you teach it here, along with some single and triple step East Coast Swing, ChaCha along with some basic swings twists and other moves. I, like everyone else, have seen the "Shuffle" as you call in in this video, especially the end where they shuffle to the side, side, other side. I have asked countless dance teachers, instructors and spent hours searching the internet for this explanation. I have even videotaped the dance floors trying to come up with something to help me. As confident as I am dancing in a studio or dancing with someone who I have danced with in a studio I have yet to figure out how to dance with others at country bars. From my female friends who are avid bar room dancers to strangers trying to show me, they all laugh at the 'proper' 2 step that I have been taught by instructors throughout the years. I 100% know you are correct, but as a single guy trying to pick up girls at the bar it just doesn't seem to work well. I am very glad I came across this video as it has been a breakthrough in an explanation for me, you are the first to EVER bring it up. My next step is to figure out how to integrate the proper with all the girls who do the side-to-side shuffle in the bars.
Hi there. That’s such a nice compliment and we’re so happy it helped. We’ll still have this conversation whenever it’s relevant, but have long ago given up on persuading those who have already decided. At it’s core, dancing is just supposed to be fun… and we don’t believe in “proper.” We do, however, believe in talking about better or worse for those that are interested :-)
Thanks for another great explanation! I've had people in my class ask the same question about the 1-2-1 version. I just tell them that they may get bored with that. To be able to throw in some turns and promenades makes it more interesting with your version. And the swingy hip action version can fall off the rails, when you add some alcohol to the mix.
Janet Clements Let’s go out on a crowded dance floor and ask our bodies to do things that go against the laws of of physics while drinking alcohol. What could possibly go wrong? ;-)
Hey thanks for the video it cleared alot of things up as your so right if you travel and trying to learn people have different dance steps but you showed me how to overcome it. Sometimes they don't even know how to explain their besides Oh just follow the music lol wtf.
@country dance x I first learned to country dance in 2014 at a place in Fairbanks, Alaska called Kodiak Jack's. That particular dance bar was almost exclusively frequented by enlisted military personnel. Army and Air Force. As such, the patrons of that particular country place came from all over the country. What I first learned, what you call 'the shuffle', was introduced to me as 'the GI two-step' or 'the simplified two-step'. The reason given to me for this was that it was the lowest common denominator of all of the different two-step styles from around the country. I don't know if you have any insight into that or if there's any truth to it but it made complete sense to me at the time. It also meant that by learning it, I was able to dance with any partner from any geographical area. I have been dancing that way (the shuffle), for the last 5 and a 1/2 years. I really don't feel like I have become stagnant for any reason other than that at a certain point the difficulty in finding Increasingly competent partners creates a bottleneck plateau. An additional bit of insight for why you tend to find the shuffle at bars is that when drinking is involved, dancing laterally allows both partners to keep an eye out for other dancers. A dance floor at a bar can be quite chaotic and if you are moving linearly as shown in this video, the woman really can't add much to the general observation. She can't see what's behind her. Moving to the side, both she and her partner can see what they are moving toward. When dealing with drunk people, four eyes are better than two. Oh, and it's much easier to introduce first time inebriated dancers to the basics with 1,2,1 than quick quick, slow slow. '2' is about the highest number that a drunk person is able to count to while learning something entirely new that involves moving. You're dealing with professional dancers and bright eye'd bushy tailed dance students... go teach a bunch of drunk first timers and tell me which is actually the easier style.
We’re so glad you’re getting out there dancing. All styles of dance are fun no matter what you’re doing. There is, however, a time and place to not “just dance”. These videos are instructional for those who want to expand and get better. As a full time dancer since 1996, I will humbly tell you that the two step we dance is much easier at the beginning stages (even for drunk people). It is infinitely easier at the advanced stages. It’s not just that we have our opinion. That’s just fact and physics from someone who understands both and has taught thousands of people. We won’t get into a whole explanation as to why that is as some of it is mentioned in this video. Keep it up. Give something new a try!
I would agree four eyes are better than two, but whether both partners are moving shuffling sideways or moving forward (lead) and backward (follow), both partners need to be watching. collisions can occur from any angle, especially on a crowded floor where people are doing more than one type of dance (some people don't dance any official style and just groove to the music in random directions). In the style that Country Dance X is teaching here, that puts more of the onus on the lead to be watching because he's the one looking in the direction of travel most of the time, but the follow should be actively aware and provide the necessary connection to let their partner know if a collision is coming. Most experienced follows will tighten their frame and bring me in closer in those cases, while less experienced follows just get a big eye'd look of 'uh oh' in which case the lead needs to react. I suspect that happens in both style of two step. Interesting that you feel the 1,2,1 is easier to learn than 2, 2 (two quick, two slow, walking forward). I've taught a little, and taken a LOT of lessons over the past six years or so and have always found the two quick, two slow movement is easier to learn and teach because the basic movement is just walking. I suspect we both suffer from a bias of what we learn first.
"4 eyes better than 2" is only beneficial for beginner dancers. Beyond the "we don't know what we're doing" stage, it is irrelevant and potentially detrimental. Floorcraft is the leader's responsibility socially. The follower has to be able to trust the leader. If the follower is trying to do the job of the leader (and vice versa), you simply get confusion and miscommunication. I get it from the eyes of someone who doesn't understand... but let me give one quick example of how that's not a good idea: The leader is handling the responsibility of leading and watching the floor and the other dancers. He has made a judgement call on where the dancers are and how much space is available and begins a sequence of steps based on that judgement. The follower can't read the leader's mind so has no idea what is planned, but decides to bail on a pattern or decides to GO AROUND someone and choose a new direction (This is essentially leading) and cause the partnership to fall apart and literally CAUSES a collision due to the partners not being on the same page and lack of structure and control. One leader. One follower.
In addition, 1,2,1 is most definitely more difficult to learn for beginners no matter what you danced first. It just is. Look at it this way: "Ok, Mr. Student... step forward and at an angle to the left with your left foot. Now bring your right foot together to your left. Next, move your left foot again forward and at an angle to the left with your left foot. Last, step with your right foot forward and at an angle to the right redirecting your movement slightly the other way. We count this as "1,2,1" which we count with 3 words even thought there are 4 weight changes." .... OR, you could say "walk forward in a straight line. Great. Now do the same thing but take 2 steps quick and 2 steps slow." What do you think works best for beginners? lol That's not even to mention the fact that learning the other way will cause them to hit a wall in their progress and not be able to do much beyond the basic steps (without leaving the dance and rhythm completely ... other wise known as dancing a completely new dance style).
@@PoeticJusticeSC I'm at the other end of the spectrum from you. I've taught alot but have never taken lessons. All of my experience is from bar dancing. I have taught many many first time dancers who thought they needed liquid courage to get out and try. In a loud and chaotic setting it can be difficult for them to even keep the 1,2,1 number rhythm straight. They also have a hard time not concentrating solely on their own feet. As I am a girl, this means I'm kind of required to help steer the progression even though it's their job to lead. I only brought any of this up because there seemed to be some confusion as to 'why the shuffle is so popular'. To clarify, After 5 plus years of dancing, even in a bar setting, I have become proficiant at all of the different two-step styles. It's not just a matter of liking what I learned 1st best. What I'm trying to express with all this is a bit of insight as to why the shuffle is taught/learned at all in the 1st place. At least from my experience. I'm in Washington State, where we don't have a traditional local dance and the two step is not taught in highschools or at hoe downs to young people. Perhaps the experience is different in more Eastern parts of the country. Where these dances are more ubiquitous.
Great video! Finally saw someone address the different styles of 2-step. Here's my experience as a beginner....I have seen NOBODY dance 2-step the way you teach it, even though I agree that it's the best way and makes the most sense. I think it's because of one of the reasons you mentioned...it does not feel like a dance when it's 4 straight steps, different rhythm or not. I do see people dancing "one, together, step, step", and they have no problems doing turns. Haven't seen all of your videos, but I don't think turns are ever done in the middle of quick-quick, so the feet together argument may be invalid. Again, just a guess as I'm a beginner. Still, I plan to continue learning using your method and I am sure I will eventually find a partner familiar with it. Keep up the great videos, they are the best I have seen. And thanks!
Thanks for watching and contributing. While turns aren't the only reason your feet shouldn't close on the quick quick, turns are almost ALWAYS done during the quick quick. Two step has been around for a long time and has been danced with passing feet forever. We're glad you've started dancing. Give it some time, keep working on it. Some of the things we've said will likely make more sense as you progress. In the meantime, you can do a quick search for "UCWDC Two Step" here on TH-cam and get a better picture of what's possible.
Actually, unless you're leading a double turn, the turns in this version of Two Step are done on the quick-quick portion almost exclusively. At least at the beginner to intermediate level that's the case. There are so many patterns available to two step when you pass your feet that it has always felt like a dance to me despite the four straight steps. Once you get familiar with the dance you rarely spend much time dancing those four steps in a straight line. I don't have a large sample size, but the times when I've seen dancers do the shuffling two step they essentially stop that part of the dance when they want to do patterns and then start it up again after the patters. It always looks like they are doing two different dances. The version Anthony is teaching facilitates hundreds of pattern options without changing the timing of the footwork (though you can if you want) and it progresses smoothly down the dance floor from patter to patter or into and out of basics. I try not to fall into the trap of just liking the version I learned first, but having seen both done, I am far more interested in continuing two step with passing feet. But I'm happy to dance alongside those who prefer the shuffle. Whatever version or versions you choose to pursue, I hope you enjoy it :).
I’m having trouble two stepping. I go to a dance once a month and each dance( almost all are two step ) I have to pick a new girl. No offense but your two step looks closer to walking than dancing. Any advice? Or video you recommend ???
Very informative, I was originally looking for another video you mentioned somewhere, it was something like "Reasons why you should do the progressive basic." I can't find it, but this one was close enough. Bottom line I'm having trouble getting students to want to do the progressive since literally no one does it that way in San Antonio, TX at the bar. Maybe one or two couples will do the progressive, but mainly it's the other version with the shuffle. My grandma and grandfather did it that way as well so I understand it's the classic way. This is a good break down between the two. However people want to do it the way everyone else is doing it, and I'm still having trouble convincing certain people otherwise. Maybe I'll teach them the shuffle version as asked until they hit a wall, and we need to switch it. Some people have to experience it for themselves. Texans can be stubborn lol
We've danced in SA many times. We're in Houston which is, for sure, a little more traditional. Most here still dance QQSS the way we teach. To be clear, we never use the phrase "progressive" when referring to Two Step. That is just to be assumed as that's how Two Step has always been danced (go all the way back to Urban Cowboy and watch the QQSS). In Dallas, they refer to the "shuffle version" as Three Step. We're on board with that I supposed. For us, it's weird that someone started dancing Two Step differently and we now have to change the name of the dance to "Progressive" haha On another note, dancing in SA is not all that surprising. Tejano dancing has a heavy influence in some areas of Texas.
I haven't been online for awhile. I noticed that you have removed several of your beginner Two Step videos (Wrap, continual Wrap, Sweetheart to Wrap). Are these still available? I am curious why these videos were removed because they were excellent. Have you changed you style on these steps? Thanks.
Welcome back! We are reorganizing our videos as we are in the process of releasing X Dance TV. There are currently over 1200 videos inside (including everything we've ever released on TH-cam). :-)
@@countrydancex Thanks! As I have said before (and tell everyone I now) you folks promote country dancing in a way that nobody else does. You're the best !
I needed that video. After watching the other two step videos I was thinking " what have I been doing?" I was one of the 1,2 -1 people but that's all I've ever known. When i started learning how to turn her i found it fun but challenging because i could only start the turns on the 3 or the second 1 when we stepped out... I'm definitely going to try it your way. It also helped when you explained the different turn directions on the appropriate foot.
Hey, appreciate you making these videos...but I really couldn't find any examples of this dance with the music. That's important for me, as I'm a drummer and connecting it with the music counts is everything for me.
Hi there. I think you’ll find dozens of videos here on our channel with Two Step danced to music (it’s also in this video). You could also search “UCWDC Two Step”
I need a video where you show these basic steps to music. Anyone know of one? It makes sense but then when the music comes on, for some reason, my feet don’t want to do it. 😂
We have many videos on this channel where the steps are danced to music. Look at pretty much any move we've posted in the last 2 years, and there will be a demonstration at the end. This video may not have it because it's about dance theory rather than specific moves.
That’s a valid observation. Country dance is very regional in style. Some communities don’t dance two step at all. We teach Two Step as it done on a national level and the way that works best.
Dummy Question: Why QQSS instead of all the same duration? For learning --- I know we need to be on the correct foot for turns, but isn't it easier to learn moves at a consistent walking pace and then add timing variations after? For dancing --- I know if you're just walking it won't look or feel a lot like dancing, so rhythmic walking seems better, but there's nothing in the music that suggests QQSS, so why not just walk at whatever speed you want, and then change the speed faster or slower when you feel inspired / when the music seems to want a change of pace? Most music for two-step has 4 even beats per music bar, yet QQSS = 6 counts. I know foxtrot and swing often also have 6-count moves over 4/4 music, but still, this adds to my question: in Two-Step, why not just step at a consistent pace? In this video, from 6:30 to 6:40, you steadily walk for 8 and then do a spin in each direction, all at the same pace. Is it possible to dance most two-step moves at a consistent pace, perhaps half-way between your typical slow and your typical quick? Thanks
Hi there. Thanks for the “dummy question” :-) There are around a dozen individual questions here, so bear with us as we do our best to answer them as simply as possible. On the rhythm, you “could” enter the floor and dance a straight rhythm but you wouldn’t be doing two step. Each dance style needs an expected rhythm for the 2 partners to stay in sync with each other. A straight rhythm of slows would actually be more similar to another dance called “One Step”. All of that about 4/4 timing etc is irrelevant. We would count two step based on a down beat/up beat rhythm and there is a 1 every other count. In that section of the video you referred to, we are dancing qqss, not a straight rhythm. Watch it again. And no, you can’t dance a rhythm “half-way between” quicks and slows. Since the music is your partnership metronome, anything between quicks and slows would completely ignore the music. Here’s our question... why fight the rhythm? It works, has worked for decades, other potential partners expect it, and qqss has never done anything wrong to you. 😂 To sum up an answer to your main question... yes, you “could” dance straight slows (or quicks, or slicks). But you could also just go out on the floor and jump up and down wearing a grass skirt and yell about egg salad sandwiches. Neither of those things would get you much of anywhere from a partnership perspective.
I'm hate to not pick or maybe I'm confused ( for sure) but didn't he just take her clockwise as he's telling it's always counter clockwise . I want to learn so bad but it's not easy for me. I need you to be thoroughly correct if your going to teach me .ya know
Hi there. The line of dance is always counter clockwise. The follower will turn in both directions... but always travel around the floor counter clockwise. Whether or not the video demonstrates right to left or left to right on your screen is totally irrelevant.
@@countrydancex you really should line up on the other side of the screen for new people, it is confusing to them. I have been dancing for years and it bothered me that your were going the wrong way in your demo.
It's good to know and practice this until you have it down....................before you go out drinking and try to learn from scratch...................
For Pete’s sake, can’t anyone make a video of just dancing with music? I feel like I have looked at them all and it’s just talk, talk, talk with some stylized ballroom dancing thrown in. I just want to dance at my cousins wedding.
We should definitely take Pete into consideration. Here’s what it sounds like… you want to learn to dance, but don’t want to actually pay for someone to teach you, search for free “how to” lessons on TH-cam, are confused that the how to lessons actually teach rather than just dance, and then complain in the comments section of the free how to video you watched? Do you want a refund?
i dont understand this at all if you tried to do this at a country bar close to me no one would know what to do (Ab Canada) what you do around here is 2 shuffle steps forward with a diagonal step. repeat its 121 not 1122 you guide to the music with arm pumps with 2 short 1 long to let your partner know and then if you want to spin you move your hand from her waste to her shoulder and apply light pressure. leading her to the spin if you want to speed up the dance your arm pumps start long instead of 2 short 1 long to indicate your speeding up
My girlfriend tried to tech me 2 steps left then one to the right and then I argued because most country isn’t written in beats of 3 it’s written in 4 I always new it was wrong
We get it... Technically, you can't step with the left foot twice in a row (unless you hop on one foot). The rhythm and number of steps are exactly the same. It's still 4 weight changes either way... If you do "2 steps left", you still have to connect the 2 steps with the right foot which is another weight change. Our issue is that the feet should pass one in front of the other rather than coming together. This allows for better freedom for turns, continuity of motion, and smoothness.
Wouldn't "hold, frame, foot position etc" be more well suited in a video not titled "Two Step Dancing For Dummies?" If you're wanting the basic step more broken down that way, check out the "How To Two Step Dance" playlist on this channel. It's hard to put it ALL in one video, so there are hundreds of videos here.
Are you afraid we’re going to pull a knife on you? I mean, something about someone standing with their hands in their pockets must really upset you if you’re going to leave that comment. Did something happen when you were a child?
![[LIVE] : ONE ลุมพินี 88 | คู่เอก "ป้อมเพชร vs อัสลามจอน"](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/1ZqTVVbMgbo/mqdefault.jpg)
I love being twirled around the dance floor by a man, even if he’s just learning along with me. I’m still a newbie after decades of trying 🤣
Men who enjoy dancing and know how to make a woman look smooth on the dance floor while having a fun laugh are such a turn on! 🔥 🥰
That's what it's all about!
I really appreciate you visually explaining the "shuffle version". That's how I see majority of people here in Buffalo, NY two-step. It makes so much sense to explain why there are so many toe-stepping and miss-connections when the dance itself isn't being performed kinesthetically. I applaud your way to break down the dances in ways that I think everyone will understand. I will continue to follow you and your videos and look forward to more!
Awesome! We've been country dancing a really long time and it seems that the shuffly version has become more prevalent just in recent years. We love that more people are dancing now and encourage everyone to get out on the dance floor. We also want to help people be successful on the dance floor. It's so much more fun when it's done well. Thanks for watching!
allisa i learned the same two step near camp Lajune n.c . heads up, the country two step is a backwards fox trot .the fox trot is slo slo qwike qwik. the count for countr is qwik qwik slow slow. we all can thank charly chaplan for these dance st
Great explanation of both types. I dance two step like you do, but see lots of people doing the shuffle version which I never really understood. This is a great explanation and comparison that shows the benefits of passing your feet without putting people on the defensive if they have learned the shuffle version. People tend to prefer what they first learn, so if we'd like to encourage people to try the two step with passing feet so they can enjoy the hundreds of possible patterns, it helps by not making them defend what they already know.
I (Anthony) have been dancing and teaching country dance full time since the mid 90s. I had never even seen the shuffley two step until just a few years ago. The best I can figure out is that it’s actually two step blended with tejano dancing. On the other hand, we love that country dancing has had a surge of popularity recently. We believe that it will work it’s way back to it’s roots as these newer dancers continue to improve and experience dancing outside of just their local bars. The shuffley two step is very limiting and eventually the ones that dance it will try to grow beyond what the structure of what they’re doing will physically allow. That’s when they’ll have to choose to stick with what they know yet grow stagnant in their dancing, or grow into the two step that we teach which will open the door to being able to accomplish so much more.
I first learned to country dance in 2014 at a place in Fairbanks, Alaska called Kodiak Jack's. That particular dance bar was almost exclusively frequented by enlisted military personnel. Army and Air Force. As such, the patrons of that particular country place came from all over the country. What I first learned, what you call 'the shuffle', was introduced to me as 'the GI two-step' or 'the simplified two-step'. The reason given to me for this was that it was the lowest common denominator of all of the different two-step styles from around the country. I don't know if you have any insight into that or if there's any truth to it but it made complete sense to me at the time. It also meant that by learning it, I was able to dance with any partner from any geographical area. I have been dancing that way (the shuffle), for the last 5 and a 1/2 years. I really don't feel like I have become stagnant for any reason other than that at a certain point the difficulty in finding Increasingly competent partners creates a bottleneck plateau.
An additional bit of insight for why you tend to find the shuffle at bars is that when drinking is involved, dancing laterally allows both partners to keep an eye out for other dancers. A dance floor at a bar can be quite chaotic and if you are moving linearly as shown in this video, the woman really can't add much to the general observation. She can't see what's behind her. Moving to the side, both she and her partner can see what they are moving toward. When dealing with drunk people, four eyes are better than two. Oh, and it's much easier to introduce first time inebriated dancers to the basics with 1,2,1 than quick quick, slow slow. '2' is about the highest number that a drunk person is able to count to while learning something entirely new that involves moving.
You're dealing with professional dancers and bright eye'd bushy tailed dance students... go teach a bunch of drunk first timers and tell me which is actually the easier style.
I agree that no matter what, it’s 4 steps (quick quick slow slow). But you can still shuffle and do all the turns because the slow slow are still progressive, and the turns are done after the 2nd slow. We shuffle and turn all the time smoothly in Texas.
True story: There was this guy who was a former dance champion. He had won all these awards and was known all around the world as one of the best of his day. Late one night, he was driving home after a dance competition and got into a terrible accident. Due to his injuries, the doctors were forced to amputate one of his legs. For a dancer, this was obviously devastating. Though he would never compete ever again, he did continue to tour the dance circuit as a judge.
He would, in between heats, put his crutches down and take a partner out to the floor and social dance by hopping and turning on one foot. It was fun and inspirational to watch him dance that way.
In the other hand, hopping on one foot would not be a dance technique we would recommend for anyone blessed with two feet. There are some things that could be done and others that could not.
BTW … we are in Texas.
This Canadian knew how to 2 step but it's been a while. I've come to both of you for a refresher. :) Thanks.
Love you guys! My husband and I are trying to learn some dances before our daughter’s wedding in Aug.2025
I learned the shuffle style back in 1990 at Wild West (fka Midnight Rodeo) in Houston on Long Point before it moved to Richmond.
have watched a few of your videos & I like the imagery that the words you use brings up - it's like "he's leading but she's really in charge" - reminds me of dustin lynch cowboys and angels
That sounds just like life at the Lewis household lol
Thank you for watching and contributing here in the comments!
Had to love this comment because that song is why I'm here! It's going to be our first dance song at our wedding next month!
I live in Austin Texas and enjoy the dance hall’s. Glad I realized there are so many styles. Some people make me question if I’m doing it right just because they do the quick quick slow slow or the 1,2, 1 like I do
Thanks for watching and commenting. Yeah ... people do a lot of weird stuff and call it Two Step hahaha. If, on the other hand, you want to improve your Two Step and "make stuff work"... we recommend not closing your feet. The 1,2,1 thing doesn't bother us if that's how it makes sense to you to count it. You could literally count it in the names of zoo animals and it doesn't matter... but technically you can't count 4 weight changes with 3 words.
Anthony & Rose great work, I put you up there with the top few instructors I really take seriously on here.
I have been trying to learn to dance for years. I have spent countless hours in dance studios and with instructors. I have learned the basic 2step as you teach it here, along with some single and triple step East Coast Swing, ChaCha along with some basic swings twists and other moves. I, like everyone else, have seen the "Shuffle" as you call in in this video, especially the end where they shuffle to the side, side, other side. I have asked countless dance teachers, instructors and spent hours searching the internet for this explanation. I have even videotaped the dance floors trying to come up with something to help me.
As confident as I am dancing in a studio or dancing with someone who I have danced with in a studio I have yet to figure out how to dance with others at country bars. From my female friends who are avid bar room dancers to strangers trying to show me, they all laugh at the 'proper' 2 step that I have been taught by instructors throughout the years. I 100% know you are correct, but as a single guy trying to pick up girls at the bar it just doesn't seem to work well.
I am very glad I came across this video as it has been a breakthrough in an explanation for me, you are the first to EVER bring it up. My next step is to figure out how to integrate the proper with all the girls who do the side-to-side shuffle in the bars.
Hi there. That’s such a nice compliment and we’re so happy it helped. We’ll still have this conversation whenever it’s relevant, but have long ago given up on persuading those who have already decided. At it’s core, dancing is just supposed to be fun… and we don’t believe in “proper.” We do, however, believe in talking about better or worse for those that are interested :-)
Thanks for another great explanation! I've had people in my class ask the same question about the 1-2-1 version. I just tell them that they may get bored with that. To be able to throw in some turns and promenades makes it more interesting with your version. And the swingy hip action version can fall off the rails, when you add some alcohol to the mix.
Janet Clements Let’s go out on a crowded dance floor and ask our bodies to do things that go against the laws of of physics while drinking alcohol. What could possibly go wrong? ;-)
Country Dance X: I like the way you think!
New video: "The more I drink, the better I think I dance."
You guys are a joy to watch and I hope some day my husband and I can look decent having fun your inspiring
Thank you for the positivity! Everyone has to start at the beginning. We had to do it too :-)
Hey thanks for the video it cleared alot of things up as your so right if you travel and trying to learn people have different dance steps but you showed me how to overcome it. Sometimes they don't even know how to explain their besides Oh just follow the music lol wtf.
We're so glad it was helpful!
Finally!!! Your speaking too me!!!
Hahaha! Glad we’re on the same page ;-)
@country dance x
I first learned to country dance in 2014 at a place in Fairbanks, Alaska called Kodiak Jack's. That particular dance bar was almost exclusively frequented by enlisted military personnel. Army and Air Force. As such, the patrons of that particular country place came from all over the country. What I first learned, what you call 'the shuffle', was introduced to me as 'the GI two-step' or 'the simplified two-step'. The reason given to me for this was that it was the lowest common denominator of all of the different two-step styles from around the country. I don't know if you have any insight into that or if there's any truth to it but it made complete sense to me at the time. It also meant that by learning it, I was able to dance with any partner from any geographical area. I have been dancing that way (the shuffle), for the last 5 and a 1/2 years. I really don't feel like I have become stagnant for any reason other than that at a certain point the difficulty in finding Increasingly competent partners creates a bottleneck plateau.
An additional bit of insight for why you tend to find the shuffle at bars is that when drinking is involved, dancing laterally allows both partners to keep an eye out for other dancers. A dance floor at a bar can be quite chaotic and if you are moving linearly as shown in this video, the woman really can't add much to the general observation. She can't see what's behind her. Moving to the side, both she and her partner can see what they are moving toward. When dealing with drunk people, four eyes are better than two. Oh, and it's much easier to introduce first time inebriated dancers to the basics with 1,2,1 than quick quick, slow slow. '2' is about the highest number that a drunk person is able to count to while learning something entirely new that involves moving.
You're dealing with professional dancers and bright eye'd bushy tailed dance students... go teach a bunch of drunk first timers and tell me which is actually the easier style.
We’re so glad you’re getting out there dancing. All styles of dance are fun no matter what you’re doing.
There is, however, a time and place to not “just dance”. These videos are instructional for those who want to expand and get better.
As a full time dancer since 1996, I will humbly tell you that the two step we dance is much easier at the beginning stages (even for drunk people). It is infinitely easier at the advanced stages. It’s not just that we have our opinion. That’s just fact and physics from someone who understands both and has taught thousands of people. We won’t get into a whole explanation as to why that is as some of it is mentioned in this video.
Keep it up. Give something new a try!
I would agree four eyes are better than two, but whether both partners are moving shuffling sideways or moving forward (lead) and backward (follow), both partners need to be watching. collisions can occur from any angle, especially on a crowded floor where people are doing more than one type of dance (some people don't dance any official style and just groove to the music in random directions). In the style that Country Dance X is teaching here, that puts more of the onus on the lead to be watching because he's the one looking in the direction of travel most of the time, but the follow should be actively aware and provide the necessary connection to let their partner know if a collision is coming. Most experienced follows will tighten their frame and bring me in closer in those cases, while less experienced follows just get a big eye'd look of 'uh oh' in which case the lead needs to react. I suspect that happens in both style of two step.
Interesting that you feel the 1,2,1 is easier to learn than 2, 2 (two quick, two slow, walking forward). I've taught a little, and taken a LOT of lessons over the past six years or so and have always found the two quick, two slow movement is easier to learn and teach because the basic movement is just walking. I suspect we both suffer from a bias of what we learn first.
"4 eyes better than 2" is only beneficial for beginner dancers. Beyond the "we don't know what we're doing" stage, it is irrelevant and potentially detrimental. Floorcraft is the leader's responsibility socially. The follower has to be able to trust the leader. If the follower is trying to do the job of the leader (and vice versa), you simply get confusion and miscommunication. I get it from the eyes of someone who doesn't understand... but let me give one quick example of how that's not a good idea: The leader is handling the responsibility of leading and watching the floor and the other dancers. He has made a judgement call on where the dancers are and how much space is available and begins a sequence of steps based on that judgement. The follower can't read the leader's mind so has no idea what is planned, but decides to bail on a pattern or decides to GO AROUND someone and choose a new direction (This is essentially leading) and cause the partnership to fall apart and literally CAUSES a collision due to the partners not being on the same page and lack of structure and control. One leader. One follower.
In addition, 1,2,1 is most definitely more difficult to learn for beginners no matter what you danced first. It just is. Look at it this way: "Ok, Mr. Student... step forward and at an angle to the left with your left foot. Now bring your right foot together to your left. Next, move your left foot again forward and at an angle to the left with your left foot. Last, step with your right foot forward and at an angle to the right redirecting your movement slightly the other way. We count this as "1,2,1" which we count with 3 words even thought there are 4 weight changes." .... OR, you could say "walk forward in a straight line. Great. Now do the same thing but take 2 steps quick and 2 steps slow." What do you think works best for beginners? lol That's not even to mention the fact that learning the other way will cause them to hit a wall in their progress and not be able to do much beyond the basic steps (without leaving the dance and rhythm completely ... other wise known as dancing a completely new dance style).
@@PoeticJusticeSC I'm at the other end of the spectrum from you. I've taught alot but have never taken lessons. All of my experience is from bar dancing. I have taught many many first time dancers who thought they needed liquid courage to get out and try. In a loud and chaotic setting it can be difficult for them to even keep the 1,2,1 number rhythm straight. They also have a hard time not concentrating solely on their own feet. As I am a girl, this means I'm kind of required to help steer the progression even though it's their job to lead. I only brought any of this up because there seemed to be some confusion as to 'why the shuffle is so popular'.
To clarify, After 5 plus years of dancing, even in a bar setting, I have become proficiant at all of the different two-step styles. It's not just a matter of liking what I learned 1st best. What I'm trying to express with all this is a bit of insight as to why the shuffle is taught/learned at all in the 1st place. At least from my experience. I'm in Washington State, where we don't have a traditional local dance and the two step is not taught in highschools or at hoe downs to young people. Perhaps the experience is different in more Eastern parts of the country. Where these dances are more ubiquitous.
Simplified it for me -- forever thankful1
You're forever welcome. We're glad it helped!
Thank you so much! My girlfriend is going to be impressed.. At least I hope!
Lol. Gotta take care of the ladies
I hope it worked out for you,
Love the Texas Two Step
We do too!
Ahhh you guys thank you, another type of dance to add to my improvement. Thank you
You’re very welcome! Thanks for supporting the channel :-)
Great video! Finally saw someone address the different styles of 2-step. Here's my experience as a beginner....I have seen NOBODY dance 2-step the way you teach it, even though I agree that it's the best way and makes the most sense. I think it's because of one of the reasons you mentioned...it does not feel like a dance when it's 4 straight steps, different rhythm or not. I do see people dancing "one, together, step, step", and they have no problems doing turns. Haven't seen all of your videos, but I don't think turns are ever done in the middle of quick-quick, so the feet together argument may be invalid. Again, just a guess as I'm a beginner. Still, I plan to continue learning using your method and I am sure I will eventually find a partner familiar with it. Keep up the great videos, they are the best I have seen. And thanks!
Thanks for watching and contributing. While turns aren't the only reason your feet shouldn't close on the quick quick, turns are almost ALWAYS done during the quick quick. Two step has been around for a long time and has been danced with passing feet forever. We're glad you've started dancing. Give it some time, keep working on it. Some of the things we've said will likely make more sense as you progress. In the meantime, you can do a quick search for "UCWDC Two Step" here on TH-cam and get a better picture of what's possible.
Actually, unless you're leading a double turn, the turns in this version of Two Step are done on the quick-quick portion almost exclusively. At least at the beginner to intermediate level that's the case.
There are so many patterns available to two step when you pass your feet that it has always felt like a dance to me despite the four straight steps. Once you get familiar with the dance you rarely spend much time dancing those four steps in a straight line.
I don't have a large sample size, but the times when I've seen dancers do the shuffling two step they essentially stop that part of the dance when they want to do patterns and then start it up again after the patters. It always looks like they are doing two different dances. The version Anthony is teaching facilitates hundreds of pattern options without changing the timing of the footwork (though you can if you want) and it progresses smoothly down the dance floor from patter to patter or into and out of basics.
I try not to fall into the trap of just liking the version I learned first, but having seen both done, I am far more interested in continuing two step with passing feet. But I'm happy to dance alongside those who prefer the shuffle.
Whatever version or versions you choose to pursue, I hope you enjoy it :).
I’m having trouble two stepping. I go to a dance once a month and each dance( almost all are two step ) I have to pick a new girl. No offense but your two step looks closer to walking than dancing. Any advice? Or video you recommend ???
Very informative, I was originally looking for another video you mentioned somewhere, it was something like "Reasons why you should do the progressive basic." I can't find it, but this one was close enough. Bottom line I'm having trouble getting students to want to do the progressive since literally no one does it that way in San Antonio, TX at the bar. Maybe one or two couples will do the progressive, but mainly it's the other version with the shuffle. My grandma and grandfather did it that way as well so I understand it's the classic way. This is a good break down between the two. However people want to do it the way everyone else is doing it, and I'm still having trouble convincing certain people otherwise. Maybe I'll teach them the shuffle version as asked until they hit a wall, and we need to switch it. Some people have to experience it for themselves. Texans can be stubborn lol
We've danced in SA many times. We're in Houston which is, for sure, a little more traditional. Most here still dance QQSS the way we teach.
To be clear, we never use the phrase "progressive" when referring to Two Step. That is just to be assumed as that's how Two Step has always been danced (go all the way back to Urban Cowboy and watch the QQSS).
In Dallas, they refer to the "shuffle version" as Three Step. We're on board with that I supposed. For us, it's weird that someone started dancing Two Step differently and we now have to change the name of the dance to "Progressive" haha
On another note, dancing in SA is not all that surprising. Tejano dancing has a heavy influence in some areas of Texas.
Thank you. Your explanations make so much sense!
So glad it was helpful
I haven't been online for awhile. I noticed that you have removed several of your beginner Two Step videos (Wrap, continual Wrap, Sweetheart to Wrap). Are these still available? I am curious why these videos were removed because they were excellent. Have you changed you style on these steps? Thanks.
Welcome back! We are reorganizing our videos as we are in the process of releasing X Dance TV. There are currently over 1200 videos inside (including everything we've ever released on TH-cam). :-)
@@countrydancex Thanks! As I have said before (and tell everyone I now) you folks promote country dancing in a way that nobody else does. You're the best !
Love this dance
Two step is the best!
I needed that video. After watching the other two step videos I was thinking " what have I been doing?" I was one of the 1,2 -1 people but that's all I've ever known. When i started learning how to turn her i found it fun but challenging because i could only start the turns on the 3 or the second 1 when we stepped out... I'm definitely going to try it your way. It also helped when you explained the different turn directions on the appropriate foot.
I (Anthony) have danced and taught Two Step since the mid 90s. This 1,2,1 thing is new (and just doesn’t make any sense).
Let us know how it goes!
Great instruction, thank you, looking forward to more of your channel
Thank you for watching and the positive feedback! Let us know if there's anything you'd like to see here :-)
Chad, I’m worried. Are you having a stroke?
@@countrydancex my apologies, phone was unlocked in my pocket
Ha!
Hey, appreciate you making these videos...but I really couldn't find any examples of this dance with the music. That's important for me, as I'm a drummer and connecting it with the music counts is everything for me.
Hi there. I think you’ll find dozens of videos here on our channel with Two Step danced to music (it’s also in this video). You could also search “UCWDC Two Step”
Excellent! Thank you!
Glad it was helpful!
Hello where do you get those cool shirts Anthony wears
Hi there. Anthony gets most of what he wears from Buckle
I need a video where you show these basic steps to music. Anyone know of one? It makes sense but then when the music comes on, for some reason, my feet don’t want to do it. 😂
We have many videos on this channel where the steps are danced to music. Look at pretty much any move we've posted in the last 2 years, and there will be a demonstration at the end. This video may not have it because it's about dance theory rather than specific moves.
Thank you.
You’re very welcome! Thank you for joining us :-)
Traditional country the best
That's why we teach it :-)
Works here just fine lol
This video was made for me 😅
You’re welcome 😂
really helpful!
We’re so glad! Thank you for watching :-)
I need to look up the part about asking the girl to dance.. :o
Well you don't do turns when your feet are together. But you can infuse it in to your dance
Hi there. There are a lot of things you could do.
Jost a boy from Whatchamacallit, OK. But this is soo different from how I learned, I'm just curious how that happens.
That’s a valid observation. Country dance is very regional in style. Some communities don’t dance two step at all. We teach Two Step as it done on a national level and the way that works best.
Dummy Question: Why QQSS instead of all the same duration?
For learning --- I know we need to be on the correct foot for turns, but isn't it easier to learn moves at a consistent walking pace and then add timing variations after?
For dancing --- I know if you're just walking it won't look or feel a lot like dancing, so rhythmic walking seems better, but there's nothing in the music that suggests QQSS, so why not just walk at whatever speed you want, and then change the speed faster or slower when you feel inspired / when the music seems to want a change of pace?
Most music for two-step has 4 even beats per music bar, yet QQSS = 6 counts. I know foxtrot and swing often also have 6-count moves over 4/4 music, but still, this adds to my question: in Two-Step, why not just step at a consistent pace?
In this video, from 6:30 to 6:40, you steadily walk for 8 and then do a spin in each direction, all at the same pace. Is it possible to dance most two-step moves at a consistent pace, perhaps half-way between your typical slow and your typical quick?
Thanks
Hi there. Thanks for the “dummy question” :-)
There are around a dozen individual questions here, so bear with us as we do our best to answer them as simply as possible.
On the rhythm, you “could” enter the floor and dance a straight rhythm but you wouldn’t be doing two step. Each dance style needs an expected rhythm for the 2 partners to stay in sync with each other.
A straight rhythm of slows would actually be more similar to another dance called “One Step”.
All of that about 4/4 timing etc is irrelevant. We would count two step based on a down beat/up beat rhythm and there is a 1 every other count.
In that section of the video you referred to, we are dancing qqss, not a straight rhythm. Watch it again. And no, you can’t dance a rhythm “half-way between” quicks and slows. Since the music is your partnership metronome, anything between quicks and slows would completely ignore the music.
Here’s our question... why fight the rhythm? It works, has worked for decades, other potential partners expect it, and qqss has never done anything wrong to you. 😂
To sum up an answer to your main question... yes, you “could” dance straight slows (or quicks, or slicks). But you could also just go out on the floor and jump up and down wearing a grass skirt and yell about egg salad sandwiches. Neither of those things would get you much of anywhere from a partnership perspective.
@@countrydancex good answer, thanks. And funny :)
Country or salsa??
Hokey Pokey. That's what it's all about
The 1,2,1 my step dad taught me like second step is what I mean
Thank you for watching!
I'm hate to not pick or maybe I'm confused ( for sure) but didn't he just take her clockwise as he's telling it's always counter clockwise . I want to learn so bad but it's not easy for me. I need you to be thoroughly correct if your going to teach me .ya know
Hi there. The line of dance is always counter clockwise. The follower will turn in both directions... but always travel around the floor counter clockwise.
Whether or not the video demonstrates right to left or left to right on your screen is totally irrelevant.
@@countrydancex you really should line up on the other side of the screen for new people, it is confusing to them. I have been dancing for years and it bothered me that your were going the wrong way in your demo.
We do appreciate the input and will take that into consideration
❤
It's good to know and practice this until you have it down....................before you go out drinking and try to learn from scratch...................
Hahahaha ... the more we drink, the better dancers we think we are
Ugh, I’ve been dancing it for 30 years wrong 😩 no wonder I’m terrible.,
Lol. That's not fair. There is no "wrong" .. simply infinite shades of better or worse :-)
Heyyy
For Pete’s sake, can’t anyone make a video of just dancing with music? I feel like I have looked at them all and it’s just talk, talk, talk with some stylized ballroom dancing thrown in. I just want to dance at my cousins wedding.
We should definitely take Pete into consideration.
Here’s what it sounds like… you want to learn to dance, but don’t want to actually pay for someone to teach you, search for free “how to” lessons on TH-cam, are confused that the how to lessons actually teach rather than just dance, and then complain in the comments section of the free how to video you watched?
Do you want a refund?
i dont understand this at all if you tried to do this at a country bar close to me no one would know what to do (Ab Canada) what you do around here is 2 shuffle steps forward with a diagonal step. repeat its 121 not 1122 you guide to the music with arm pumps with 2 short 1 long to let your partner know and then if you want to spin you move your hand from her waste to her shoulder and apply light pressure. leading her to the spin if you want to speed up the dance your arm pumps start long instead of 2 short 1 long to indicate your speeding up
Yikes.
My girlfriend tried to tech me 2 steps left then one to the right and then I argued because most country isn’t written in beats of 3 it’s written in 4 I always new it was wrong
We get it... Technically, you can't step with the left foot twice in a row (unless you hop on one foot). The rhythm and number of steps are exactly the same. It's still 4 weight changes either way... If you do "2 steps left", you still have to connect the 2 steps with the right foot which is another weight change. Our issue is that the feet should pass one in front of the other rather than coming together. This allows for better freedom for turns, continuity of motion, and smoothness.
👍🇺🇸💃🎶🥰
Hi you. Dance in a shoes with a health
Hello. What?
Sorry - way too chatty! Not enough technical instruction about hold, frame, foot position etc. Just not informative.
Wouldn't "hold, frame, foot position etc" be more well suited in a video not titled "Two Step Dancing For Dummies?" If you're wanting the basic step more broken down that way, check out the "How To Two Step Dance" playlist on this channel. It's hard to put it ALL in one video, so there are hundreds of videos here.
Get your hands out of your pockets please?
Are you afraid we’re going to pull a knife on you? I mean, something about someone standing with their hands in their pockets must really upset you if you’re going to leave that comment. Did something happen when you were a child?
Are you a cop? Or did you do time in the pen?