The Texas Two step Etiquette

The Texas (or country-western) two-step is the most performed country dance in America. It is a graceful dance derived from the foxtrot. Couples move counter-clockwise around the dance floor in a steady timing of quick, quick, slow, slow. Good two-step dancers are fun to watch---they are not only graceful, but move quickly to approximately 170 beats per minute.

Identification
The Texas two-step is danced six counts to a four-count rhythm. The footwork timing is quick, quick, slow, slow. The couple moves around the perimeter of the dance floor in a counter-clockwise direction. The man leads with forward steps, and the woman follows with backward steps. As the couple moves, it looks as if they are walking. There is no bouncing, only smooth strides that follow the music. The posture for the Texas two-step is upright yet relaxed. The man directs his partner by placing his right hand on her back. The woman puts her left hand on the man's right shoulder. The man's left hand and woman's right hand are held together. Elbows are at shoulder height and chins are level. Eyes are focused on each other and other dancers, not on the floor. The man guides the woman around the floor starting on his left foot forward as she starts on her right foot backward.

History
The Texas two-step is based on the collegiate foxtrot of the 1920s, which is danced more with hopping steps instead of the two-step's sliding motion. The 1940s and 1950s saw a revival of collegiate dances. By the '50s, the collegiate foxtrot had become the one-step, which then led to the popular two-step. During the '70s, the movie "Urban Cowboy" reintroduced the public to country-western dancing. The two-step in the movie is not the "quick, quick, slow, slow" version taught today, however.

Benefits
Dancing's benefits are well documented. The constant movement provides good exercise. The Texas two-step has a greater benefit for a couple---it brings the two people together as they are learning it. Because the basic "quick, quick, slow, slow" steps are considered beginner steps, the dance can be learned quickly. The woman must learn to read the signals the man gives with his hand on her back. The man leads, and the woman follows. The concept of leading and following in sync creates a oneness that can bring couples closer together.

Warning
Before going onto a crowded dance floor, learn the rules of etiquette. No drinks, cigarettes or purses are allowed on most country-western dance floors. Socializing on the floor is not tolerated.The floor is usually crowded when popular songs are playing. Different types of dances have specific locations. Line dances and swing dances are usually delegated to the center of the floor, while two-step dancers circulate on the outside. If you are a beginner, stay in the inner circle. The outer circle is for experienced dancers who will move faster and include different moves to the dance.

Time Frame
Learning the Texas two-step does not take long. An adult class that meets once a week for six weeks will give a couple enough background to go out on the floor and feel comfortable. You'll even learn to do an inside turn and outside turn. Classes usually run one to two hours, with individual guidance and group work. Couples will have time to practice to slow and faster music, so they can learn to adapt on a dance floor. Practice should continue at home several times a week for an hour or two.