8 Quickstep Steps Every Beginner Should Master

Quickstep is one of the most energetic and elegant ballroom dances. With its fast-paced steps, playful hops, and smooth turns, it’s both visually stunning and fun to learn. While it may seem complex at first glance, beginners can start with fundamental exercises that build confidence, coordination, and rhythm.

This guide will break down 8 essential Quickstep figures and exercises for beginners. We’ll also explain how to practice them, and highlight the many benefits of learning this lively dance at the best dance school in Naperville, IL.

What is Quickstep?

Originating in the 1920s, Quickstep evolved from foxtrot and jazz-inspired dances. It is characterized by rapid footwork, light bouncing movements, and dynamic spins. Unlike slower ballroom dances, it requires precision, balance, and timing.

For beginners, we start learning basic steps, and then we’ll gradually move to figures like spin turns, progressive chasses, and lock steps. 

8 Quickstep Steps To Learn

1. Chasse

The chasse is the foundation of Quickstep. This basic side-close-side step is essential for almost every figure in the dance.

Steps:

1. Step to the side with your right foot.

2. Close your left foot to meet the right.

3. Step to the side again with your right foot.

4. Repeat in the opposite direction.

   
   

Count: Slow – quick – quick.

This exercise develops balance, coordination, and rhythm, which are essential for performing more complex moves like spin turns and progressive chasse. We encourage our beginner dancers to chasse both alone and with a partner to get comfortable with timing and body movement.

2. Quickstep Basic

Once you’ve mastered the basic chasse, you can progress to quarter turns combined with progressive chasses. This figure adds movement around the floor while maintaining the chasse rhythm.

Man’s steps:

• Start with the right foot forward.

• Turn slightly to the right while stepping side-close-side.

• Continue forward with a progressive chasse.

  
  

Lady’s steps:

• Start with your left foot back.

• Follow the partner, moving in the same quarter turn and chasse pattern.

  
  

This figure teaches beginners how to move dynamically across the floor, develop coordination with a partner, and transition between sequences smoothly.

3. Natural Spin Turn 

Spin turns are one of Quickstep’s signature moves. They require weight transfer, rotation, and poise.

How to practice as an exercise:

• Begin with a small rock step forward and back.

• Pivot gently on your supporting foot.

• Rotate 180 degrees to complete the turn.

  
  

Spin turns build balance, body awareness, and confidence in performing fast, fluid movements with a partner.

4. Lock Step

Lock steps involve crossing one foot in front of or behind the other, creating a “locked” appearance.

Exercise:

1. Step forward with one foot.

2. Cross the other foot behind the leading foot.

3. Step forward again.

   
   

Lock steps are excellent for developing control and momentum while moving quickly around the dance floor.

5. Natural Turn with Hesitation

The natural turn should be a smooth, flowing rotation performed while progressing along the floor. Adding a hesitation introduces a subtle pause, giving the movement elegance and style.

How to practice:

• Step forward and slightly to the side.

• Cross the foot behind the other for a brief pause.

• Continue forward, maintaining balance and rhythm.

  
  

Hesitation steps improve musicality and timing, helping beginners add flair to their Quickstep without compromising control.

6. Progressive Chasse to Right

The progressive chasse is a sequence of side-close-side steps that moves the dancer across the floor to the right.

How to practice:

• Step side, close, side.

• Repeat, moving progressively forward.

• Maintain posture, keeping the back straight and shoulders relaxed.

  
  

This figure builds forward momentum, coordination, and endurance, allowing dancers to connect sequences smoothly.

7. Tipple Chasse to the Right with Lock Ending

This figure combines a tipple chasse (a flowing chasse variation) with a lock step ending, often used to change direction or finish a sequence.

Man’s steps:

• Forward side-close-side.

• Back side-close-side.

• Lock step forward and slightly to the side.

  
  

Lady’s steps:

• Back side-close-side.

• Forward side-close-side.

• Lock step with controlled movement and lowered body posture.

  
  

This figure is excellent for transitions between different sections of a routine, making movements appear seamless and dynamic.

8. Walk and Chasse

The simplest combination for beginners is walking steps combined with chasses. This figure allows dancers to maintain rhythm while moving naturally around the floor.

How to practice:

• Forward walk: Step forward outside partner, side-close-side, slightly back.

• Backward walk: Step back, side-close-side, slightly forward.

  
  

Walking with chasses improves coordination, timing, and partner connection, forming the backbone of many Quickstep routines.

Tips for Beginners Who Want To Dance Quickstep

1. Start Slowly: Focus on each step and figure before increasing speed.

2. Count Out Loud: Use slow – quick – quick – slow to maintain rhythm.

3. Maintain Posture: Keep shoulders relaxed, back straight, and hold your partner gently but firmly.

4. Practice Regularly: Short, frequent sessions help build muscle memory and coordination.

5. Enjoy the Dance: Quickstep is fun. Embrace the rhythm and allow your movements to flow naturally.

Why Quickstep Is a Great Dance to Learn at Our Studio

Quickstep is an energetic and elegant dance that rewards dancers at every stage of learning. At our studio, beginners start with simple movements such as chasses, walks, and rock steps, then gradually build toward spins, progressive chasses, lock steps, and more dynamic figures as confidence grows.

Practicing Quickstep helps improve balance, coordination, and overall fitness, while also sharpening focus and musical timing. Just as importantly, it builds confidence and brings a sense of enjoyment to the dance floor. Whether your goal is to stay active, feel more comfortable dancing with others, or simply try something new, Quickstep offers a fun and structured way to grow.

With the guidance of our instructors and a supportive learning environment, students are able to progress at a comfortable pace while enjoying the lively rhythm of slow, quick, quick, slow. 

Join us at NP Dance studio in Naperville, IL, today. 

Fill out the form and become a part of our family. Apply here!