Dance is a powerful form of expression that connects people and cultures. Mastering new dance routines can be both exciting and challenging, especially when learning remotely from videos. To make this process easier and more enjoyable, clear, detailed instructions are essential. This guide breaks down the “Boots on the Ground” dance—a vibrant, rhythmic routine created by Trey Little to the song of the same name by 803 Fresh. Whether you are a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this article offers a step-by-step walkthrough for learning this energetic dance with confidence.
Introduction to the "Boots on the Ground" Dance
“Boots on the Ground” is a popular dance that combines simple footwork and rhythmic movements to create an engaging routine. It first gained attention through social media and YouTube, with many dancers following Trey Little’s original choreography. But understanding the sequence just by watching can be tricky, so this article serves as a comprehensive instructional companion.
By explaining each segment clearly and guiding you through the foot placement, timing, and turns, you will be able to execute the dance with precision and style. The choreography mainly involves right and left foot steps, taps, crosses, turns, and rhythmic components that flow seamlessly when practiced.
Getting Started: Basic Footwork and Positioning
Opening Steps: Right and Left Side Steps
The dance kicks off on the right foot with a simple stepping rhythm:
- Step right
- Step left
- Step right twice
This moves to a count of five, six, seven, eight:
Right, left, right, right
Immediately after, the sequence reverses to the left foot side:
- Step left
- Step right
- Step left twice
Counting out loud helps internalize the rhythm:
Left, right, left, left
Once these two sequences are performed separately, they are combined smoothly in succession:
Right, left, right, right, left, right, left, left
During this phase, you can add a subtle sway from right to left, enhancing the fluidity and preparing your body for the upcoming moves.
Next Phase: Taps, Sides, and Back Movements
The Tap and Side Movement
After mastering the side steps, the next move focuses on taps executed with the right foot:
- Tap forward
- Tap up
- Tap to the side
- Tap up to side again
Counting the taps within a beat helps with synchronization:
Right, right, left, right, right, left, right, left, left (with emphasis on ‘up’ and ‘side’).
Back Side Movement
Once the taps are smooth, incorporate a back step combined with a side step using the same foot:
- Step back
- Step side
This creates contrast with the previous forward tap movement and enhances the dance’s spatial dynamics.
Cross and Tap Steps: Adding Style and Complexity
At this point, the right foot finishes the last move by stepping out. Then, follow these steps:
- Cross the right foot over the left foot.
- Tap the left foot out to the side.
This sequence is repeated on the opposite side:
- Cross the left foot over the right foot.
- Tap the right foot out to the side.
When combined, the pattern looks like this:
Up, side, back, side, cross, tap, cross, tap
This adds flair and rhythm variation, making the dance visually interesting and dynamic.
Incorporating Turns: Triple Steps (Cha-Cha Style)
Right Turn Sequence
Immediately after the cross and tap steps, turn to the right using a triple step:
- Step up on the right foot.
- Turn to the right with a triple step (counted as one-two-three or “cha-cha-cha”).
This turning technique shifts your orientation smoothly to face the next wall or direction in your space.
Left Turn Sequence
Similarly, perform a half turn to the left with your left foot stepping up first, followed by the triple step left:
- Step up left foot.
- Turn left with a triple step (one-two-three).
This turn typically requires a slightly longer progression to complete the half turn, effectively reversing your facing direction to a new wall in your dance space.
Walking Up or Stepping In Place
After completing the turns, you will walk forward for four steps:
- Step right
- Step left
- Step right
- Step left
This can be done either moving forward in your space or stepping in place, depending on the crowd size or room configuration. Keeping this consistent helps with timing and adds a basic yet vital transitional step.
Finishing Flair: Fan or Pop Movements
The final part of the routine provides an opportunity for personal expression by incorporating fan, clap, or pop motions for four counts. This can be combined with a subtle twist or a “Stanky Leg” motion:
- Four counts of popping or clapping (one-two-three-four)
- Perform the twist or leg move on each count
This finishing flourish not only signals the end of one sequence but also flows into the repeat of the dance from the top.
Full Dance Recap: Step-by-Step Flow
Here’s a concise breakdown of the entire sequence:
- Side Steps: Right-left-right-right, Left-right-left-left (with sway)
- Taps: Tap forward, up, side, up (right foot)
- Back and Side: Step back and side using the right foot
- Cross and Tap: Cross right foot over left, tap left out; cross left over right, tap right out
- Turns: Step up and turn right with a triple-step; step up and half turn left with triple-step
- Walk up or step in place: Four steps right-left-right-left
- Pop or Fan: Four counts of clapping/popping and twist
- Repeat the dance from the top
Tips for Mastering the “Boots on the Ground” Dance
- Count the Rhythm: Stay connected to the beat and count out loud (“5, 6, 7, 8”) especially during transitions.
- Use Mirrors or Record Yourself: Visual feedback helps refine foot placement and body positioning.
- Practice Turns Slowly: Turns require balance and coordination; practicing at slower tempos improves confidence.
- Add Your Personal Style: Once comfortable, personalize the moves with arm gestures or subtle body rolls.
- Space Awareness: If dancing in a group, adjust steps (walking or stepping in place) according to floor space.
- Watch Instructional Videos: Videos showing the choreography from different angles offer valuable visual clues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who created the “Boots on the Ground” dance?
The dance was choreographed by Trey Little to the song "Boots on the Ground" performed by 803 Fresh.
2. Can beginners learn this dance easily?
Absolutely. The routine consists of repetitive, easy-to-follow steps that beginners can master with practice and patience.
3. How important is counting in this dance?
Counting is crucial for staying on beat and coordinating movements smoothly. It helps maintain rhythmic accuracy throughout the routine.
4. Can I perform the walking steps in place if space is limited?
Yes, stepping in place for the four-step walk is a great option when dancing in a crowded or small space.
5. What are triple steps?
Triple steps are a quick sequence of three steps counted as “1-2-3” or “cha-cha-cha,” typically used in turning movements.
6. How do I transition between the side steps and taps?
The side steps end with controlled sway, which you can smoothly transfer into placing your foot forward for the tap movements.
7. Is there a specific style for the finishing pop and twist?
No strict style is required; you can choose to clap, pop, or make a twist motion that complements your personality and the music’s vibe.
Conclusion
Learning the "Boots on the Ground" dance can be a rewarding experience that enhances your rhythm, coordination, and confidence on the floor. By following this comprehensive step-by-step guide, you will grasp each component of the routine—from basic side steps and taps to intricate foot crosses and turns. Remember to practice patiently, count your beats, and enjoy adding your own unique flair. With consistent effort, you’ll be able to dance "Boots on the Ground" smoothly and impressively, ready to share it with friends or at social dance events.
Step into the rhythm, keep your boots on the ground, and dance your heart out!