The Dallas Two Step

The Dallas Two Step is sometimes called the Triple Two step, Double Two step, or Progressive Swing. Although it has a more leisurely pace than the Polka typically 120bpm, the same music is used. The Dallas Two Step is danced gracefully with the triple-step, triple-step, walk-walk rhythm. Combining steps of the Two Step, Polka, and Western Swing, the Dallas Two Step become a unique western style dance.

1. Step 1 Purchase a CD of slow country swing music written in 4/4 time in the tempo range of 116 to 156 beats per minute or polka music and play the music repeatedly while driving or cleaning.
2. Step 2 Count the steps to the timing of the music and call them out 1, 2, 3,1,2,3 as you listen while driving or sitting. Learning the correct timing to the music is essential to dance the Dallas Two Step. Continue this listening exercise until you can automatically count the steps in time to the music with ease.
3. Step 3 Practice the basic step including the step timing until it is automatic and you no longer need to count. Practice the triple step, triple step, rock step basic until its automatic as well.
4. Step 4 Practice these basic steps to music until they become automatic. You can practice the basic steps without a partner until you get the timing down without counting.
5. Step 5 Say 1&2, 3&4, 5, 6 out loud as you shuffle, shuffle, walk, walk to get the timing down. The Dallas Two Step is sometimes referred to as swing on the move because the dance uses a progressive version of the triple timing swing basic. Then try practicing the basic steps with a partner, step forward, touch opposite hands, step backward, touch opposite hands, walk walk. As you do the walk walk step, your partner should have his right arm gently around your shoulders, almost like an escort.
6. Step 6 Adding some of the other steps and patterns. Reach out and touch your partner's hand like you are going to shake hands and release. Touch your partners opposite hand with your other hand and release. Take your partners other hand, lift it over your head and twirl around underneath. Continue spinning clockwise around the dance floor while you do these steps. At the same time, you both place your hands on your hips and spin in a circle, and then continue around the dance floor.
7. Step 7 Dance around the perimeter of the dance floor in a counterclockwise fashion while playing either Polka music or slow country swing music. Hold each other loosely, only your arms should be touching, not your bodies. As your partner shuffles around the dance floor you continue to spin under his arm.
8. Step 8 Dance progressive triple step, progressive triple step, then two walking steps. A triple step is three weight changes made within two beats of music. The triple step is usually counted 1and 2. The walking steps each receive one beat of music. There are eight weight changes, utilizing six beats of music to complete one full basic step.
9. Step 9 Practice with a partner trying to maintain a progressive step pattern that uses six beats of music and includes two triple steps, followed by two walking steps that each receive one count .
10. Step 10 Change positions constantly with your partner. Popular basic figures include weaves, lariats, pretzels, ducts, tunnels, and free spins. Ladies should allow their arms to soften and droop while maintaining frame and connection. The lady should always dance into the man’s right hand and provide equal resistance in the connection to the man’s left hand.