Descriptive, not prescriptive — a learning aid built by dancers, not a source of truth about West Coast Swing. Read more

Starter Step

beginner

also known as: Intro Step

The little two-triple pattern many dancers use to begin a dance: side triple, side triple (or rock-and-triple), establishing connection and the slot before the first real pattern.

Not universal — plenty of dancers start straight into a sugar push or side pass — but common enough in classes that learners should recognize it. Its real job is a connection check: settling weight, matching hand pressure, and agreeing on timing before anything travels.

Video examples (2)

full video

Full from-zero beginner guide.

Total BEGINNERS Guide to West Coast Swing!

full video

Covers the starter step and left side pass together.

West Coast Swing Basic Steps (Starter Step & Left Side Pass)

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