Skip to content

Swing Out: How to Do the Step, Count and Common Mistakes

Welcome to the Swing Out, the core eight-count circular move of Lindy Hop! Also called the swingout, this intermediate step is the heart of vintage swing dancing. You will see it in many Lindy Hop routines because it creates that classic, dynamic stretching feeling between partners. Get ready to master the rhythm and bring some serious energy to the dance floor!

Step card

Count
1, 2, 3-and-4, 5, 6, 7-and-8
Level
Intermediate
Found in
Lindy Hop
In short
The core 8-count circular move of Lindy Hop

The timing

step (weight change) touch, kick or sound hold

How to do it

  1. Start on counts 1, 2 by taking two solid steps, shifting your weight with each beat.
  2. On counts 3-and-4, dance a quick triple step, keeping your feet close together as you rotate.
  3. For counts 5, 6, take two more distinct steps as you move away from the center.
  4. Finish on counts 7-and-8 with a final triple step, settling your weight into an open position.

Tips

  • Keep your knees slightly bent and stay on the balls of your feet to maintain a bouncy, athletic posture.
  • Count the rhythm out loud as 'step, step, triple-step, step, step, triple-step' to help nail the timing.
  • Let your arms stay relaxed but engaged so you can feel the stretch and connection without pulling.

Common mistakes

  • Taking steps that are too large. Keep your footwork compact and directly under your body to stay balanced during the triple steps.
  • Standing completely straight. Sink into your knees slightly to absorb the bounce and keep your center of gravity low.
  • Rushing the triple steps. Listen closely to the music and ensure you hit all three weight changes precisely across the numbered beats and the 'and' counts.

Variations and practice

  • Practice the footwork completely solo in a straight line to build muscle memory before trying it in a circle.
  • Add a swivel on counts 1 and 2 for a classic styling variation that brings extra flair to your basic step.
  • Try a variation where you execute a behind-the-back hand change during the second triple step.

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.