A true “American Dance” and a decendant of Lindy Hop and Jitterbug, thus dance is also known as Triple Swing. It dates back to 1920 where the black community discovered the Charleston and Lindy Hop while dancing to jazz music. It followed the development of ”Ragtime” and then “swing” music. During World War Two the American Forces introduced this Dance to Britain, together with the popular orchestras of the day, such as benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey, and of course Glen Miller. Sometime after war’s end, the faster version stayed in Europe and became known as the Jive. This dance continues to be popular with all age groups as music is available from all time eras.

Music - Danced  in 4/4 timing, the mnusic is fast and lively in the Swing style.

Characteristics - Basically a stationary dance, the East Coast Swing  may have some progressive movements. It should be lively, fast and full of fun. Weight should be kept to the balls of the feet so as to ensure a slight "bounce" effect. There are a variety of movements that can be danced such as spins, kicks, underarm turns and changes of rhythm.

West Coast Swing

The West Coast Swing is directly related to East Coast Swing and was undoubtedly born due to the style of music being played in the 1940's, and the need for a dance that did not take up so much room. The West Coast Swing has evolved into a "Slot" dance that allows more dancers into a small area, but encourages more individuality from the participants.

Music - Danced in 4/4 timing the music will basically be in a slow swing style. However good music for this dance has come from a variety of styles, Rock and Roll and Country Western being just two.

Characteristic - A slow swing danced in a slot, to a medium tempo of music. Smooth, without any bounce the partners will stay in the slot to a medium tempo of music. Smooth without any bounce, the partners will stay in the slot with the lady providing most of the movement across and past the man. Within these moves there is the opportunity for individuality by the use of various maneuver’s such as turns spins and different rhythms and footwork.