Cha Cha Slide Steps

The Cha Cha Slide is a popular line dance, performed at weddings, proms, and other festive gatherings. Peppy and fun, the Cha Cha Slide steps are often used in competitive partner dance. Although the exact steps can vary depending on the performer of the music, the basics are usually the same and they can be adapted as needed. This is an upbeat, joyful dance that never goes out of style.

Prepare to Dance

Put in some simple prep work to get the most out of your dance training. Click on the image below for printable instructions for the Grapevine as well as the other steps of the Cha Cha Slide. If you need some help, try these handy tips for Adobe printables.

Cha Cha Slide Steps

The Cha Cha Slide is a type of line dance that was choreographed by a Chicago DJ called Mr. C. You may also recognize him as DJ Casper. The steps were written originally as part of a workout set for a fitness chain, but have become popular in regular partner dance circles and now they are taught regularly at clubs and dance studios. The song typically calls out exactly what you need to be doing, which makes it simple. What's even better is that these steps are easy and fun to learn, so get ready to move on the dance floor as though you own it! Here's how it works.

Grapevine

1. Step to the side with your left foot.
2. Cross your right foot over the left and step down.
3. Step to the side with the left foot again.
4. Cross the right foot behind the left and step down.
5. Step out with the left foot.
6. Bring the right foot in. Touch right beside left.

Take It Back Now

1. Step backwards with your left foot.
2. Step backwards with your right foot.
3. Step backwards with your left foot.
4. Bring your right foot to meet your left.

One, Two, Three, Hop This Time

1. Jump forward with your feet together.
2. Repeat as many times as the caller specifies.

Stomping

1. Making a dramatic movement with your whole body, stomp your right or left foot as the instructor calls.
2. As you move, incorporate jazz hands or other arm movements.

Jazz Square

1. Cross your right foot over your left foot.
2. Uncross your legs by stepping onto your left foot.
3. Step to the right with your right foot.
4. Step in front of you with your left foot.

Turning Grapevine

1. Adjust your body to the left.
2. Step out on your right side with your right foot.
3. Cross your left foot over the right one.
4. Step out on your right side with your right foot.
5. Close your left foot on the left side of your right foot.

Miscellaneous Steps

You will hear some miscellaneous dance steps as the caller continues in the song. Some will be as simple as clapping hands, and some will be more complex but simple enough to catch on to with observation and practice. Try out the following steps and incorporate them into your performances of the Cha Cha Slide:

• Clap your hands to the beat of the song.
• Hop once using both feet.
• Turn a quarter turn, so you are now facing to the left of where you started. This step requires using a modified grapevine, using the leg crossing to help you move in to the turn.
• Jump and cross your legs and immediately jump back to your starting position, called the "criss cross."
• Bend over and put your hands on your knees.
• Practice how well you can "freeze" when you're mid-dance.
• If the lyrics ask, "How low can you go?" dip down to the floor and then bring your body back up.
• When the lyrics tell you to "reverse," some dancers do a 180-degree turn, some do a complete turn or spin in place, and some simply slide in the opposite direction.
• Do the Charlie Brown by jumping forward on one leg and then back on the other, kicking the front knee up as you jump back.

Make the Dance Your Own

Why wait for a night out to start doing the cha cha slide? Get the song and start practicing today. Although the dance follows a set pattern, it also allows for a lot of individual expression. Create a dramatic pose for the freeze. Shake your hips with every stomp. Add a full turn to your grapevines. Whatever you do, just have fun with it!