Beginners Basic

    Like a young child learning to take it's first steps you must learn to walk before you can run.  Beginners Basic is just that.  It is the Basic Steps that will be the very foundation of your dance and is low in degree of difficulty.

    There are several types of Shag basic steps that can be learned, based on the region you are from and who you learn from.  One of the most common basics is the "Rock Basic".  Some refer to this as the "Eight Count".  This is also the step most used by the members of the CSA  (Competitive Shaggers Association). The steps you learn and the names of the steps could vary based on Instructor.
 

    In the Beginner Basic classes you could learn;

• Basic Rock Step
• Female Under Arm Turn
• Male Under Arm Turn
• Basic Turn Variations
• Male Over Arm Turn
• Male Over Arm Turn to Chase
• Female Under Arm Turn to Chase
• Female Under Arm Turn to Quarter Chase
• Female Under Arm Turn to Closed Position
• Right Hand Pull Through Variations
• To Chase
• To Pitch Out
• Start
• Barrel Turn
• Barrel Roll

    The Dance is done to a "Six Count Beat" and counted 1&2, 3&4, 5&6. With the Male starting on his left foot and the Woman on her right.

    The couple makes contact by holding hands, the Man's left with the Woman's right at waist level, taking care not to move it around until ready to lead the step.