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

The Triple Step is a beginner-friendly staple that involves three quick weight changes in two beats of music. You will often see this move, sometimes called the triple step dance or triple step swing, in classic styles like Swing Dance, Lindy Hop, and West Coast Swing. It adds a bouncy, rhythmic feel to your footwork and serves as a foundational building block for many routines.

Step card

Count
1-and-2
Level
Beginner
In short
Three quick weight changes in two beats

The timing

step (weight change) touch, kick or sound hold

How to do it

  1. Start with your weight on your left foot, ready to move your right foot.
  2. On count 1, step your right foot to the side and shift your weight onto it.
  3. On the 'and' count, bring your left foot next to your right and shift your weight to the left foot.
  4. On count 2, step your right foot to the side again, shifting your weight back to the right foot.
  5. Hold your position for the final half beat before starting your next move.

Tips

  • Keep your knees slightly bent to absorb the bounce and maintain a smooth rhythm.
  • Take small steps and keep your feet under your body so you do not lose your balance.
  • Stay on the balls of your feet to make those quick weight changes feel light and effortless.

Common mistakes

  • Skipping the weight change. Make sure you completely transfer your weight to the new foot on every single step.
  • Taking steps that are too large. Keep your footwork compact so you can easily keep up with the fast pace of the music.
  • Dancing flat-footed. Stay off your heels to maintain the bouncy energy helpful for many swing styles.

Variations and practice

  • Practice moving forward and backward instead of just side to side.
  • Try a crossing triple step by stepping one foot slightly behind the other on the 'and' count.
  • Alternate your starting foot to build muscle memory on both your left and right sides.

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.