If you’re in Orlando and curious about swing dancing, this beginner-friendly video is a great place to start. Anthony and Rose—professional instructors now teaching locally at Country Dance Orlando—break down the three most common types of swing dancing you’ll see on a country dance floor: East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, and Country Swing.
You don’t need any dance experience to follow along. This lesson was made with total beginners in mind, and it walks you through the basics step by step. You’ll also get plenty of practical tips (and some laughs) along the way, just like in one of their real classes here in Central Florida.
First, Anthony and Rose break down East Coast Swing—a fun, upbeat dance with a bouncy feel. They explain the rhythm (triple step, triple step, rock step), the footwork for both leaders and followers, and the “lilt” that gives this dance its signature style. You’ll also learn what to avoid, like taking steps that are too big or skipping weight transfers.
Next, they walk you through West Coast Swing, a smoother and more subtle style danced in a “slot.” This one’s perfect for people who like chill, modern music. It uses the same 6-beat rhythm as East Coast Swing, but the look and feel are totally different. Anthony explains how the leader moves side to side while the follower glides through the center, and why this style is so popular in places like Orlando where social dancing is booming.
Lastly, they cover Country Swing, which is a bit of a freestyle mash-up. It’s easy to learn, super casual, and great for newcomers who just want to jump on the dance floor and have fun. While it’s not as structured as the other swing styles, Anthony and Rose explain how it works and why it’s become such a big part of the country dance scene—especially for beginners.
Whether you’re brand new to partner dancing or just want to understand the differences between these styles, this video is a fun, informative way to dip your toe in. And if you’re ready to take the next step, Country Dance Orlando offers weekly group classes and private lessons for dancers of all levels, right here in the heart of Central Florida. Come learn in person, meet new people, and build your confidence on the dance floor.