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Sailor Step: How to Do the Step, Count and Common Mistakes

Get ready to add some fun flair to your routine with the Sailor Step. Often seen in line dancing, this beginner to intermediate move gives you a fun, swaying motion that looks effortless once you get the timing down. You will cross behind, step to the side, and step in place, riding the rhythm perfectly. It is a fantastic way to transition between moves while keeping your feet moving to the beat.

Step card

Count
1-and-2
Level
Beginner to intermediate
Found in
Line Dancing
In short
Cross behind, step side, step in place, with a slight sway

The timing

step (weight change) touch, kick or sound hold

How to do it

  1. Start with your weight on your left foot so your right foot is free to move.
  2. On count 1, cross your right foot directly behind your left foot and shift your weight onto it.
  3. On the 'and' count, step your left foot out to the left side, shifting your weight to the left.
  4. On count 2, step your right foot slightly to the right or in place, shifting your weight back to the right.
  5. Hold for the final 'and' count, ready to repeat the entire sequence starting with your left foot.

Tips

  • Keep a slight bend in your knees to help you achieve that signature rocking sway.
  • Stay on the balls of your feet during the initial weight changes for quicker, lighter movement.
  • Let your upper body naturally lean slightly away from the crossing foot to maintain your balance.

Common mistakes

  • Taking steps that are too large. Keep your footwork tight and directly under your body so you do not fall behind the beat.
  • Forgetting the weight changes. Make sure you actually transfer your body weight onto the stepping foot on every single count.
  • Staying too stiff. Relax your hips and let them sway naturally with the side steps to capture the true style of the move.

Variations and practice

  • Practice doing the move continuously from side to side, alternating right and left to build muscle memory.
  • Try a traveling sailor step by making your side steps slightly larger to move gradually backward or across the floor.

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.