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
- First, Find a good instructor. Learning a solid foundation gets you far in this dance. Find the right instructor. Go by stepper referrals.
- Second, Find your dance shoes. Leather sole shoes are recommended. Ladies look for shoes with ankle support.
- Third, Go to class and practice. Attend class regularly and practice at home alone daily and with other steppers.
More about the incredible Chicago Stepping Experience!
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
- 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
Cultural Factors of Chicago Stepping
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!
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. 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!
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.
Music
Music we step to originates across decades since the 1960s. We also walk to certain slower songs.
