• West Coast Swing

WCS: Understanding 6 vs 8 Count Patterns

This lesson will clear up one of the biggest sticking points for West Coast Swing dancers moving from novice into intermediate: how do you know if a pattern is six counts or eight counts — and more importantly, how do you feel the difference? Anthony and Rose break it all down in a super simple way that finally makes sense. You’ll learn the two core rhythm structures of West Coast Swing, how each one is built (walk walk, triple step, etc.), and what physically changes between the two. You’ll also learn how leaders can clearly communicate the rhythm — not by cues or tricks, but through motion and direction — and how followers can read that information through connection. They explain the count 4 rule, where the leader communicates the rhythm change, and how to recognize whether a pattern is finishing with an anchor or continuing back across the slot. Plus, they give you an easy drill you can use right now to train your muscle memory and rhythm recognition. If you’ve ever found yourself confused mid-pattern or unsure whether you’re doing a 6 or 8-count, this video will fix it once and for all. Read More

• Jan 2022
• 12 min