Getting Started with Air Steps

Your guide to safely beginning your air steps journey.

Air steps are an exciting and expressive part of partner dancing. This guide will help you understand what air steps are, how to get started safely, and what to expect on your learning journey.

Important!

Do not attempt any weight sharing move, lift, or air step without getting verbal consent from you partner first. This includes supported dips!

Do not do lifts, supported dips, or air steps on the social dance floor.

Trust us, you do not want to be that person that hurts someone while dancing. (It happens more than you think!)

What Are Air Steps?

Air steps are partner dance movements where one or both dancers' feet leave the ground. They range from simple lifts and dips to complex aerial maneuvers. Air steps add dramatic flair to performances and competitions, but they require proper training, preparation, and safety practices.

Common Types of Air Steps

• Basic Lifts: Simple vertical lifts where the flyer's feet briefly leave the ground
• Dips: Supported movements where the flyer is lowered toward the floor
• Throws: More dynamic movements involving horizontal or rotational motion
• Advanced Aerials: Complex multi-rotation or high-flying movements

Before You Start

Prerequisites

Before attempting air steps, you should:

• Have solid foundational partner dancing skills
• Be comfortable with basic partnering techniques
• Understand connection, leading, and following principles
• Have developed good balance and body awareness
• Be physically prepared for the demands of lifting and being lifted

Find Qualified Instruction

Air steps should never be self-taught or learned casually. Look for:

• Experienced air steps instructors with a strong safety record
• Structured classes that emphasize progression and safety
• Practice groups with experienced practitioners
• Workshops specifically focused on air steps fundamentals

Your First Steps

1. Learn the Basics

• Communication: Clear verbal and physical communication with your partner
• Spotting: Understanding how to spot and be spotted safely
• Entry and Exit: Smooth transitions into and out of air steps
• Body Mechanics: Proper lifting and landing techniques

2. Start Simple

Begin with the most basic movements:

• Supported dips
• Simple vertical lifts
• Basic weight transfers
• Partner-assisted jumps

3. Practice with Spotters

Always use spotters when learning:

• Start with heavy spotting (hands-on assistance)
• Progress to light spotting (guidance and safety)
• Eventually move to safety spotting (emergency backup only)
• Never rush to remove spotting support

Safety First, Always

Physical Preparation

• Warm up thoroughly before any air steps practice
• Build strength and flexibility gradually
• Listen to your body and take breaks when needed
• Stay hydrated and maintain good nutrition

Mental Preparation

• Approach air steps with respect and patience
• Communicate openly with partners about comfort levels
• Never attempt moves beyond your current skill level
• Be prepared to say "not today" if you're not feeling it

Equipment and Environment

• Practice only on appropriate flooring (never slippery surfaces)
• Ensure adequate ceiling height and clear space
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
• Remove jewelry and secure loose items

Finding Your Community

Look for Local Groups

• Air steps practice groups in your area
• Dance studios offering air steps classes
• Workshops and intensives
• Experienced practitioners willing to mentor beginners

Online Resources

• Video tutorials for fundamental concepts
• Online communities for questions and advice
• Event listings and workshop announcements
• Safety guidelines and best practices

What to Expect

Learning Timeline

• Months 1-3: Basic safety, communication, and simple lifts
• Months 4-6: More complex movements, reduced spotting dependency
• Months 7-12: Intermediate moves, beginning to help spot others
• Year 2+: Advanced movements, teaching beginners, creative exploration

Common Challenges

• Building the necessary strength and conditioning
• Overcoming fear and building confidence
• Finding compatible practice partners
• Balancing ambition with safety

Remember

• Progress takes time: Don't rush the learning process
• Every body is different: Your journey will be unique
• Safety never compromises: When in doubt, don't attempt it
• Community matters: Learn from and support others
• Have fun: Air steps should enhance your dancing joy, not create stress

Next Steps

Ready to begin? Here's what to do next:

1. Research local air steps instruction and practice opportunities
2. Attend a beginner-friendly workshop or class
3. Connect with the air steps community in your area
4. Read our Air Steps Practice Guidelines
5. Commit to learning safely and patiently

Welcome to the air steps community! We're excited to support your journey.