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Do-Si-Do: How to Do the Step, Count and Common Mistakes

Get ready to grab a partner for the Do-Si-Do, a classic beginner move you will see all the time in Square Dance routines. Also known as a dosido dance, this fun step simply involves passing your partner by the right shoulder, stepping back to back, and returning to your starting spot. It is a fantastic way to interact with others on the dance floor while keeping your feet moving to the beat.

Step card

Count
about 6 to 8 steps
Level
Beginner
Found in
Square Dance
In short
Partners pass right shoulders, go back to back, and return

How to do it

  1. Face your partner and step forward on counts 1 and 2, aiming just to the left of them.
  2. Pass right shoulders on counts 3 and 4 as you step past each other.
  3. Take a small step sideways on count 5 so you are briefly standing back to back.
  4. Step backward on counts 6 and 7, passing left shoulders as you reverse direction.
  5. Return to your original starting position and square up to your partner on count 8.

Tips

  • Keep your arms relaxed at your sides or gently crossed, depending on the style of the song.
  • Maintain eye contact with your partner as long as possible before you pass shoulders.
  • Stay light on your feet and use a smooth, gliding walk rather than heavy stomps.

Common mistakes

  • Turning around. Keep your chest facing the same wall the entire time instead of spinning to look at your partner.
  • Bumping shoulders. Give your partner enough space by stepping slightly wide as you pass.
  • Rushing the beat. Take your time and use all six to eight steps to complete the loop smoothly.

Variations and practice

  • Practice solo by placing a chair in the middle of the room and walking the pattern around it.
  • Try a left shoulder Do-Si-Do where you pass left shoulders first and back up passing right shoulders.

Related steps

When to check in with a doctor or physical therapist

  • Pain in a knee, ankle or hip that sharpens when you turn, pivot or land
  • Dizziness, chest discomfort or unusual shortness of breath
  • Pain that is still there the next day or keeps coming back after practice

General information, not medical advice. If you have a heart, joint or balance condition, are pregnant or are returning after an injury, check with your doctor or physical therapist before starting a new dance workout.

How this page was made. Step data (count, timing pattern, level, styles) compiled by the Rhythm Desk from common teaching practice; counts can differ between teachers. Text drafted with AI assistance and checked by the Rhythm Desk; see how we write. Last checked October 2026.