The East Coast Swing

Though a strict ballroom frame is unnecessary in this dance, be certain to maintain a good connection with your partner. While in closed position, the man will generally have the best connection through his right arm and torso with his hand on the lady's shoulder blade and his left hand lowered near his waist in "pistol grip." While in open position, partners will maintain connection via hand-to-hand contact (primarily man's left to lady's right), in which case both must be mindful to provide enough resistance in their arms to communicate with one another.

All steps are taken on the balls of the feet with knees well flexed. Steps should be small, no more than shoulder width, except in instances of exaggerated travel. Attempt to create a steady up-and-down rolloing motion by pushing the balls into the floor on whole beats and quickly releasing that pressure on half beats.

Contain the dance to a small portion of the dance floor, only traveling when the area becomes too crowded or when additional space is required for certain patterns.