Lines

Lines give an idea of where you live in the 2D space we call the dancefloor. Lines form guidelines that help by giving you a structure and framework to work with so you can understand conceptually where to step for the given indication.

Imagine you walk in a certain direction. That direction is your line. You continue along this direction until you make a right turn. The moment you face this new direction, that becomes your new line. This is the idea with lines in zouk.

The line defines the straight path that acts as a reference for the steps and moves that the dancer is expected. This doesn’t necessarily mean you must walk on the line, but you need to know the line in the same way that a good sea navigator needs to know which way is north. It’s reference point.

Normally a line exists for a half basic (one boom chick chick), after which for example if you’re doing a type of Compass StepCompass StepThe fundamental footwork mechanic of stepping and pivoting on the ball of the foot to change direction., it may change.