---
title: "Why I Suggest the Shuffle Basic First · Nicholas Tapia"
canonical: "https://dance.nicktapia.com/why-i-suggest-the-shuffle-basic-first/"
tags: "shag, public"
diataxis: "explanation"
author: "@Nicholas Tapia"
---

Library · explanations

# Why I Suggest the Shuffle Basic First

First, it is extremely useful. The [shag basic - shuffle basic](https://dance.nicktapia.com/shag-basic-shuffle-basic/index.md) is GREAT for lazy efficient dancing.

Second, I prefer to defer conversations about foot placement and articulation until learners have developed proficiency in body control, rhythm, pulse, lead follow, partnering etc etc.

While I think of shag as a "footwork" dance, I *really* want it to be approachable at first. It has enough inherent challenges about it (speed/athleticism) that I prefer to focus on helping new learners get some moves under their belt and maybe Getting the Scoot in Shag first too.

## More explanations

-   [Are Chugs a Move or a Basic](https://dance.nicktapia.com/are-chugs-a-move-or-a-basic/index.md)
-   [Grippy Versus Slick Shoes in Shag](https://dance.nicktapia.com/grippy-versus-slick-shoes-in-shag/index.md)
-   [Shuffle vs Arthur Murray vs Stab](https://dance.nicktapia.com/shuffle-vs-arthur-murray-vs-stab/index.md)