You want to learn to step? Welcome to the fun, inspiring world of learning Chicago Stepping – a social partner dance that originated in Chicago from the bop. You’ll be thrilled that there are classes and instructors in Chicago and many cities across the United States where you can learn to step. With the right instructor and approach, you can develop a solid foundation and be able to dance with anyone. Learn how to step and enjoy the art of walking.
Photo Credit: SDC Steppers
Learning to Step is as Easy as 1-2-3
- Find a good instructor. Learning a solid foundation gets you far in this dance. Find the right instructor. Go by stepper referrals.
- Find your dance shoes. Leather sole shoes are recommended. Ladies look for shoes with ankle support.
- Go to class and practice. Attend class regularly and practice at home alone daily and with other steppers.
Learning Chicago Stepping has been a personal self development journey for me and it’s amazing! Growing in this dance is like experiencing your personal spring, summer, fall, and winter. As a lead mindset has been key to harvest success from every season. Let’s go to work steppers ! – Christian
More about the incredible Chicago Stepping Experience!
- Get ready to learn, make new friends, and discover unique places.
- The stepping experience is about learning, expressing yourself, and exploring music
- Whether solo or with a partner, there’s a spot for you in this vibrant dance community
- Fashion, history, bold, large personalities, and music shape the Chicago Stepping culture
- The social aspect of this dance is as fantastic as the education and dance itself
Stepping
Chicago Stepping is one dance with many variations. You will realize different foot patterns stemming from one foundation. As you elevate your dance, your personal style will shine through. Be patient. There are various methods to learn how to step!
Music
Music we step to originates across decades since the 1960s. We also walk to certain slower songs.
- Solar-Single – charell The Dope
- Never Stop – Chilly Gonzales
- You are the One – Whispers
- Intimate Friends – Eddie Kendricks
- Secrets – Glenn Jones
My birthday trip to Chicago was 3/22-3/25/24! Stepping classes were everything I hoped for and more! Lady Margaret was so kind and personable! Her class was lovely! She was VERY friendly which made me feel sooo comfortable as a beginner (beginners are nervous and scared…LOL..well at least I am). Donnie Davis’ class on Saturday was a TRUE WORKOUT! I had to sit down a few times to get a break! But it was sooo worth it! He was VERY fun and friendly. All his assistants (Shawn, Kevin, etc) were nice too! We CANNOT wait to return and continue growing in this dance that we love so dearly! – Tiffany
Etiquette
Etiquette and respect are paramount on and off the dance floor in Chicago Stepping and help to honor the traditions and history of stepping. Class instruction for men and women who learn to step should include sharing the rules of etiquette to help foster a welcoming environment for steppers.
Chicago
Chicago – the Mecca of Stepping – is one of the few places to witness Chicago Stepping in its authentic, original form and to see and understand what it means to walk. You can meet some of the best dancers and hear stories of legends. Plan to visit Chicago to fully immerse yourself in the dance in the birthplace of Stepping!
As a new stepper, I really appreciate the community. It reciprocates the love you give. The champions are super humble and always eager to give me game (tips). I feel like the longer I remain coachable (forever), the better my dance will get. It’s a stress reliever. One of biggest enjoyments of the community is being able to DJ for the community at my house or a venue. Last but not least, I appreciate privates because I don’t catch on as fast in class settings. I can go on and on! I love it here!!! #ChicagoSteppin. – DJ Floyd Ambitionn
Contests
Steppers love to compete. Contests offer beginners and seasoned dancers trophies, prize money, and bragging rights. The World’s Largest Stepping Competition – WLSC – in Chicago is the premier contest where renowned steppers have been dancing on stage for over 30 years.