Foxtrot Dance Lessons
Enjoy Foxtrot Classes Taught by Experienced Dance Instructors
From Beginner Steps to Social Dance Mastery — Foxtrot Lessons for Everyone
Experience the Best Foxtrot Dance Classes in a Group or Private Setting
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Foxtrot Dance Lessons at Our Warren Studio
A Fantastic Start to Ballroom Dancing
Harry Fox, a vaudeville dancer and comedian lent his name to the Foxtrot dance step. Fox was believed to be the first to use the “slow step,” hence… the birth of the Foxtrot. This first freestyle use of the “slow step” started out as a bit of a chauvinistic dance and came into vogue around 1912, during the period of ragtime music. This marked a completely new phase of ballroom dancing where partners danced much closer together and ad-libbed to the new and exhilarating music. Prior to this period, Polka, Waltz, and One-Step were popular. In these dances, partners were held at arm’s length and a set pattern was observed.
By 1915, another change took place — new and melodic “pop” songs were being written; tunes like, “Oh, You Beautiful Doll” and “Ida” were the smash hits of the day. The public was quick to appreciate the change to a smoother, more rhythmic style of music, and their dancing began to absorb the better attributes of the older dances. From 1917 up to the present time, the accent has been placed on smoother dancing and individualized expression.
Foxtrot – Smooth Ballroom Dancing
The Foxtrot reached its height of popularity in the 1930s. It is a smooth, progressive dance characterized by long, continuous flowing movements across the dance floor. By 1960, the International style of dancing was making its way into the U.S. ballrooms and many of the techniques were implemented into the American style Foxtrot.
As of this writing, the main difference between the two styles is that the International style Foxtrot is danced entirely in contact maintaining the normal dance hold, while the American style allows for complete freedom of expression utilizing various dance holds and positions. With its smooth and sophisticated feeling, most figures are designed for the larger ballroom floor. However, these same figures are also suited to the average dance floor when danced more compactly.
Foxtrot Basic Dance Steps
Learn the most fundamental step of the Foxtrot. The basic rhythm of the Foxtrot are walking steps and side steps. The long walking movements also involve a rise and fall action, which is similar to Waltz , although more subtle. If you already know how to Waltz , then learning the Foxtrot will be just a matter of rhythm. The footwork is a combination of slow and quick steps. The basic count is slow, slow, quick, quick. The slow steps use 2 beats of music and the quick steps use one.
Two partners face each other squarely in the closed position and the leader starts on his left foot and does 2 walks forward, side step, and then close. The follower starts with their right foot, and they do 2 walks backwards, a side step, and then close. Dancers concentrate on creating an image of a smooth, gliding motion around the dance floor.
The Corner Step (The Rock Step)
The rock step is perfect for turning around the room or at corners. The step consists of a rock step for both men and women, followed by a side step and a closing step.
Promenade Position
This is a step where the men and ladies walk in the same direction (In promenade). The steps are just two forward walks followed by the side step and closing. Both partners do the same step!
Advanced Foxtrot Dance Classes
Advanced Foxtrot classes build on fundamentals with complex figures and refined technique. You’ll master Feather Step, Three Step, natural and reverse Turns, and weaves. You’ll also learn Curved Feathers and Back Feathers, Hover Figures, Zig-Zags, and Twist Turns to increase the complexity of your movements.
Fallaway and Impetus Figures require greater control while maintaining continuous flowing movements. Advanced dancers refine footwork with precise heel and ball leads, improving transitions. You’ll improve your balance, body rotation, and axis control through advanced shaping and sway.
Learn Basic Steps and Beyond
Our talented instructors will have you ready for Foxtrot dancing in no time! We also offer private dance lessons for those looking for a more individualized approach. Give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios and take advantage of our special introductory offer for new students in the Warren area. We look forward to seeing you on the dance floor!
Fred Astaire Dance Studios also hosts exciting events and dance competitions all over the country that are great opportunities to hone your skills and make new friends. So don’t forget to check our events page periodically.
Foxtrot dance lessons are available now. You’ll be on your way to confident dancing by the end of your very first dance!
Ballroom Dance Styles We Teach
Dancing is a great way to express your emotions. Hop on the dance floor and try a ballroom or Latin dance class with us. Get creative and have fun! To learn more about each type of dance and view a demonstration video, simply click on the dance style to learn more. Then give us a call at Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and be sure to ask about our money-saving introductory offer for new students. Together, we’ll get you started on your personal dance journey and make sure you leave each dance lesson feeling happy and more confident with your dancing skills!
Classes are available for students of all skill levels – from beginners to advanced and all ages. Adults and children are welcome! Fred Astaire ballroom dance lessons are fun, exciting, and a great way to express yourself.
Our exceptional staff is ready to take your dancing journey to the next level. Sign up for an intro class!