New to Line Dancing?
Beginner’s Guide
Welcome! If you’re new to line dancing, you’re in the right place. Line dancing is a fun, social, and easy way to get moving—no partner needed! Our classes are designed to be friendly and supportive, so everyone can learn at their own pace.
What to Expect
You’ll learn step-by-step routines set to music
Dances are repeated, so you’ll pick them up quickly
No experience required—just come ready to have fun!
Mistakes are part of learning—just keep dancing!
What to Wear
Comfortable clothes you can move in
Shoes with smooth soles (not too sticky)
Cowboy boots are welcome, but not required!
Basic Line Dance Terms
Here are common terms you’ll hear in class:
Foundations
Counts – The number of beats in a dance (example: 32-count)
Wall – The direction you’re facing (4-wall = all four directions)
Step – Transfer weight onto a foot
Touch – Tap without weight
Hold – Pause for a beat
Restart – Start the dance again early
Tag – Extra steps added during the dance
Common Steps
Grapevine – Side, behind, side, touch/step
Shuffle (Triple Step) – Step together step
Walk – Step forward or back, one foot at a time
Kick – Small forward flick of the foot
Step-Touch – Step to the side, touch the other foot in
Toe Strut – Step toe, then drop heel
Heel Dig – Touch heel forward
Ball Change – Quick weight change (ball-step)
Rock Step – Rock weight forward/back and recover
Side Rock – Rock side and recover
Turns & Direction Changes
Pivot Turn – Step forward, turn, change direction
Half Turn (½ Turn) – Turn 180 degrees
Quarter Turn (¼ Turn) – Turn 90 degrees
Full Turn – Turn 360 degrees
Monterey Turn – Point, turn, step together
Intermediate Moves (You’ll See These Soon!)
Jazz Box – Cross, back, side, forward
Weave – Side, behind, side, cross
Cross Shuffle – Cross step with a shuffle rhythm
Sailor Step – Behind, side, step in place
Coaster Step – Back, together, forward
Lock Step – Step forward, lock behind, step forward
Scuff – Brush heel forward
Stomp – Step with emphasis
Swivel – Twist heels or toes side to side
Rhythm & Style
Syncopation – Quick steps between beats
Styling – Adding your own flair (arms, attitude, etc.)
Improver Level – A step above beginner, with more turns and patterns
Tips for Beginners
Don’t worry about getting everything right the first time
Watch the instructor and others around you
Start in the back row if you feel shy
Most importantly—smile and enjoy the music!
We can’t wait to see you on the dance floor. Let’s keep the world dancing!