The Tango Four Step is a smooth and elegant figure often danced in social settings, but despite its apparent simplicity, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many social dancers make subtle but critical mistakes in the Four Step that can affect the comfort, flow, and aesthetic of the figure, and as a result impact the feeling of the dance.
In this 10-minute video, George and Wendy explore the 4 most common mistakes we see when social dancers perform this figure. By recognizing and correcting these issues, you’ll not only look better on the dance floor but also provide a more enjoyable and predictable experience for your partner.
The Four Step
This figure begins in closed position facing the wall, DW, or LOD with weight on man’s RF and lady’s LF. Man steps forward with LF turning to the left, then side, then back with LF and closes RF to LF, slightly back while at the same time turning the lady to Promenade Position.
Mistake 1: Unclear Alignment and Over-Rotation
This mistake results from the leader’s uncertainty about alignment. The Four Step includes a turn that is typically 1/8 or 1/4 between the first and second steps. The key is to stop turning after that second step. Many leaders continue to rotate throughout the figure, causing a misalignment between partners and resulting in awkward hip-to-hip contact and difficulty leading into promenade position. A clear intention about how much to turn and where to end up is essential for a smooth transition and accurate lead.
Mistake 2: Delayed Lead to Promenade
Another common mistake in the Tango Four Step happens because the leader waits too long to initiate the lead into promenade position. This transition should happen between steps three and four, allowing the follow to swivel her feet appropriately. Many dancers attempt to lead the promenade during or after the fourth step, making it too late. The result is a clumsy and ineffective turn that doesn’t give the follower enough time or balance to respond properly, because she is being asked to move sideways while simultaneously being asked to swivel in place.
Mistake 3: Confusing the Four Step with the Five Step
Dancers often mix up the Four Step with the similar-looking Five Step. While both include four primary movements, the critical difference is that the Four Step ends with the feet closed, while the Five Step finishes with the feet apart. When dancers perform the Four Step but leave their feet apart, it not only confuses the follow but pulls her off balance.
Mistake 4: Improper Closing and Body Position
The final mistake is failing to achieve a true promenade position. In the Four Step, the couple ends in promenade position yet with feet together. This is a bit unusual as we usually arrive in PP with the feet apart. As a result, couples often end up kind of twisted with their bodies open too much and hips side by side. Improper positioning here diminishes the figure’s visual appeal and functional flow.
Mastering these nuances can greatly enhance both technical accuracy and your connection with your partner.
The post Video: Common Mistakes in the Tango Four Step first appeared on Delta.Dance.
