Level 1 (1 module)

Focus: Introduction to the fundamental timing, connection (with your partner), and basic patterns of West Coast Swing.

Content: Learn core concepts like starting on the downbeat and executing a stable anchor. This level introduces the most essential patterns, including left side pass, underarm turn, sugar push, sugar tuck, and whip, along with basic footwork and establishing connections in open and closed positions.

Level 2 (3 modules)

Requirements: Completed Level 1.

Focus: Building upon foundational techniques with pattern variations and key connection concepts.

Content: Expanding on Level 1, this level introduces variations of the basic patterns and new figures such as the reverse whip, and passes with turns. Key connection techniques are developed, including stretch, rotational connection, magnet arm, and steering, alongside skills for navigating a crowded dancefloor and dancing to faster music.

Level 3 (6 modules)

Requirements: Completed all modules of Level 2, equivalent to a minimum of 4 months of weekly WCS classes.

Focus: Developing the fundamentals of musicality, exploring more traveling patterns, and digging more into techniques, such as different types of turns and variations.

Content: Progressing from Levels 1 and 2, this level incorporates more complex patterns like the traveling tuck turn and free spin variations. A greater emphasis is placed on musicality, covering structure, and groove. Advanced connection concepts such as rotational and transversal energy during preps, and visual frame matching are explored, along with more complex whip variations and patterns like slingshot and cut off.

Level 4 (9 modules)

Requirements: Completed all modules of Level 3, equivalent to a minimum of one year of weekly WCS classes, and at least half a year of active social dancing.

Focus: Advancing technique, pattern complexity, and musical expression for greater versatility and partnership on the social dance floor.

Content: Building on Level 3, this level refines core techniques and introduces more complex patterns, including intricate rolls, wraps, and advanced whip variations. Develop dynamic partner connection through concepts like the resisted release and expand your footwork with syncopated rhythms and styling options. Refine turning techniques and explore different West Coast Swing styles, including off-slot movements. Deeper musicality training focuses on interpreting song structure, timing, and accents, enabling more expressive dancing and interaction with the music and your partner.

Pro tip: Be prepared for a faster pace and more in-depth technical focus in Level 4. It's normal to find it challenging initially, but you'll adapt! Repeating modules is highly recommended by teachers for a deeper understanding and is a great way to build a strong technical foundation.

Level 5

Requirements: Completed Level 4 AND approval from a teacher, equivalent to a minimum of 2-3 years of WCS, including social dancing once a week.

Focus: Deepening technical understanding, refining fundamental concepts, and integrating advanced body mechanics and musicality for a more personalized and more expressive dance.

Content: Building on a strong Level 4 foundation, this level provides a deep dive into the core techniques of West Coast Swing. We focus on refining body alignments, exploring advanced footwork variations (including hits and intricate rhythms), and mastering higher-level connection concepts integrated with better managed weight transfer, and control of space. Through this technical refinement, dancers learn to integrate body movement, shaping, and multi-layered musicality to enhance personal expression and achieve a more versatile and responsive partnership on the dance floor.