The dance floor is usually divided into concentric lanes, with the
outside lane being described as the "FAST" lane. This is where you
should be if you're Two Steppin or Waltzin. Depending on the size
of the dance floor there may also be an "INNER" lane for slower
dances such as a Schottische. If you are doing a slow dance, stay
in this inner lane and let other dancers pass you on the outside.
The closer you go to the center, the slower you may go. Line and
Swing dancers are usually located in the "CENTRE" of the floor so
it might be somewhat inadvisable to move too close to the centre
if you are doing a slow dance.
When Line Dancers are not on the floor then Swing dancers should
take the CENTRE or, if the floor is not large enough, the OUTSIDE
CORNERS of the dance floor.
I have now provided a graphic floor plans, illustrating dance lanes
and direction at my own website:
To access the floor plan from an alternate site click here:
http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/jgothard/sect6.htm
Line dancers should never occupy all three lanes and prevent other
dancers from taking the floor. This is not only the height of ill
manners but it gives line dancing a bad reputation. Likewise those
in the INNER & FAST lanes should never cut into the CENTRE of the
floor when Line Dancers are present.
Always be courteous to other dancers on the floor. If you are partner
dancing always try to shield the lady from bumps and bangs on the
floor. She probably can't see what's coming whilst you can! If there
is a collision always apologise (even if it isn't your fault) this
usually prevents unnecessary unpleasantness and often leads to the
forging of some great new friendships. However I don't recommend that
you make a habit of making new acquaintances in this way. If you
collide with other dancers in a competitive environment you will be
heavily penalised by the judges.
Men or Women with partners should ensure that both their first and
their last dance is with his/her own partner. Common courtesy also
dictates that if you see a lady without a partner you should, as they
said in the old days, "mark her card" and take the floor with her
at least once. If you do dance with a different partner NEVER walk
away from them after the dance has ended. Always walk them back to their
seat.