Anchor Step


The term anchor step is used to denote a dance step at the end of a pattern that is used while maintaining a connection.
An anchor is not a specific rhythm or foot position. In West Coast Swing both partners place their center of gravity behind the heel of the forward foot on the last two beats and the general directions of steps "back, replace, back " danced almost in place. The leader dances R-L-R feet, the follower dances L-R-L.
At the end of the anchor step the partners settle their weights on the "back" foot, the handhold is typically L-to-R, with leverage connection maintained throughout the step, and there is no urge to go in any direction in the end: the parthers are "anchored" in this terminal position at their respective ends of the slot, ready to commence the next move according to the leader's lead.