West Coast Swing

If you're looking for a dance style that is versatile, fun, and modern, then West Coast Swing is perfect for you. In this blog post, you'll learn everything you need to know about West Coast Swing: from its history and basic steps to the best songs and the health benefits of this exciting dance.

What is West Coast Swing?

West Coast Swing is a modern swing dance that originated in the 1940s and 1950s. It is characterized by its flowing movements, flexible dance hold, and the ability to improvise. Unlike other swing dances, which often feature fast and explosive movements, West Coast Swing is smooth and linear, making it particularly adaptable to various music styles—from traditional swing to pop, R&B, and blues.

How to Dance West Coast Swing

West Coast Swing is danced in an open hold, with partners often connected by their hands. The movements are linear, meaning the dancers move along an imaginary line called the "slot." This dance form offers plenty of room for creativity and personal interpretation, making it very popular among dancers of all levels.

Basic Steps of West Coast Swing

The basic steps in West Coast Swing are relatively easy to learn but require practice to execute smoothly and stylishly. Here are the basic steps:

Sugar Push

1. Starting Position: Stand facing your partner, with a slight tension in your arms.
2. Step 1: Step back with your right foot.
3. Step 2: Step back with your left foot.
4. Steps 3-4: Take two steps forward (right, left) and apply a slight push with your hands.
5. Steps 5-6: Take two steps back (right, left) and return to the starting position.

Left Side Pass

1. Starting Position: Stand facing your partner, with a slight tension in your arms.
2. Step 1: Step back with your right foot.
3. Step 2: Step to the side with your left foot to make room for your partner.
4. Steps 3-4: Your partner passes by you (right, left).
5. Steps 5-6: Complete the step by returning to the starting position (right, left).

Underarm Turn

1. Starting Position: Stand facing your partner, with a slight tension in your arms.
2. Step 1: Step back with your right foot.
3. Step 2: Step to the side with your left foot to make room for your partner.
4. Steps 3-4: Your partner turns under your arm (right, left).
5. Steps 5-6: Complete the step by returning to the starting position (right, left).

Top 10 Songs for West Coast Swing

Choosing the right music is crucial to getting the most out of your West Coast Swing dance. Here are our top 10 songs that are perfect for West Coast Swing:

1. "Blurred Lines" - Robin Thicke feat. T.I. & Pharrell
2. "Can't Stop the Feeling!" - Justin Timberlake
3. "Treasure" - Bruno Mars
4. "Cake by the Ocean" - DNCE
5. "Uptown Funk" - Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
6. "All About That Bass" - Meghan Trainor
7. "Ex's & Oh's" - Elle King
8. "Shut Up and Dance" - WALK THE MOON
9. "Sugar" - Maroon 5
10. "Love on Top" - Beyoncé

These songs offer the perfect tempo and vibe to enjoy your West Coast Swing dance.

Styles of West Coast Swing

West Coast Swing is an extremely versatile dance style and can be adapted to various music genres and personal preferences. Here are some of the most popular styles:

Traditional West Coast Swing

This style stays true to the original swing roots and is often danced to classic swing music and blues. The movements are smooth and elegant, with a strong emphasis on technique and precision.

Contemporary West Coast Swing

Contemporary West Coast Swing is more modern and danced to current pop and R&B songs. This style is more dynamic and allows more freedom in interpretation and improvisation.

Funky West Coast Swing

Funky West Coast Swing is danced to funk and hip-hop music and is characterized by its powerful and energetic movements. This style is particularly popular with younger dancers and offers plenty of room for creative figures and moves.

History of West Coast Swing

West Coast Swing has its roots in the 1940s and developed from Lindy Hop, one of the earliest swing dances. The dance became popular in California and was named to distinguish it from other swing dances being performed on the East Coast of the USA.

In the 1950s, West Coast Swing was further developed and standardized through the efforts of dance instructors like Dean Collins and Skippy Blair. The dance style quickly gained popularity and spread across the United States and later worldwide. Today, West Coast Swing is a staple of the dance scene and is performed at dance events and competitions around the globe.

Health Benefits of West Coast Swing

Dancing in general, and West Coast Swing in particular, offers numerous health benefits:

1. Cardiovascular Fitness: The continuous movements in West Coast Swing promote cardiovascular health and increase stamina.
2. Coordination and Balance: The complex footwork and various turns improve coordination and balance.
3. Stress Relief: Dancing helps to reduce stress and lift your mood.
4. Social Interaction: Dancing allows you to meet new people and make social connections, which is good for mental health.
5. Cognitive Skills: Learning new dance steps and figures promotes cognitive skills and keeps the brain fit.

Outfit for West Coast Swing

The right outfit can highlight your West Coast Swing dance style and provide you with comfort. Here are some tips for the perfect West Coast Swing outfit:

For Women:

• Dresses and Skirts: Opt for lightweight, swinging dresses and skirts that allow freedom of movement.
• Shoes: Choose dance shoes with a low heel and a smooth sole for optimal turns.
• Accessories: Keep it simple; a pair of earrings or a bracelet is enough.

For Men:

• Pants: Choose comfortable pants that allow plenty of room for movement.
• Shirts: An elegant shirt is always a good choice. Make sure it is not too tight.
• Shoes: Dance shoes with a smooth sole are ideal for effortless turns and steps.

Conclusion

West Coast Swing is a fascinating and versatile dance style that delights both beginners and experienced dancers. With its rich history, diverse dance styles, and health benefits, West Coast Swing offers a perfect mix of challenge and fun. If you are looking for a new hobby or want to expand your dance skills, try West Coast Swing!

Find your dance partner on Lets-Dance and start your West Coast Swing adventure today. Enjoy dancing!