Box step


Box step is a basic dance step named after the pattern it creates on the floor, which is that of a square or box. It is used in a number of American Style ballroom dances: rumba, waltz, bronze-level foxtrot. While it can be performed individually, it is usually done with a partner. This is the most common dance step in the waltz. In international standard dance competition, there is a similar step called closed change.
In a typical example, the leader begins with the left foot and proceeds as follows.
Every step is with full weight transfer.
Rhythm varies. For example, it is "1-2-3, 4-5-6" in waltz and "slow quick quick, slow quick quick" in rumba.
In other dances the box may start from the left or right foot, either back or forward, or even sidewise. For example, in the Samba de Gafieira#Quadrado figure of samba de Gafieira the leader steps "left-together-back, right-together-forward".

In waltz

The leader starts with his feet closed. On beat 1 he steps forward with his right foot, then he steps to the side with his left foot on 2, closes his right to his left foot on 3; steps back with his left foot on 4, to the side with his right foot on 5, and closes his left to his right foot on 6. During the second and fifth step the foot is supposed to travel along two sides of the box, rather than along its diagonal.
The follower also starts with her feet closed. On beat 1 she steps back with her left foot, then she steps to the side with her right foot on 2, closes her left to her right foot on 3; steps forward with her right foot on 4, to the side with her left foot on 5, and closes her right to her left foot on 6.

In popular culture

This dance was featured in an episode of Curious George called "School of Dance". George first saw the Renkins doing it, then he taught it to Bill, the Quints, the Man with the Yellow Hat, and at the end, Allie.