Fourteenstep

A fast march-tempo set pattern dance of fourteen steps, mostly in closed hold, with the partners changing direction through offset hold around each end.

Also called 14 Step. Other names.

Not checked yet. The mechanics on this page are a first draft by a non-expert, and no coach has seen them yet. Read them as a starting point and check them with a coach. Corrections are very welcome.

The dance

March in 2/4, 112 beats a minute. The hold is closed, slightly offset closed from step 8, closed from step 14. The partners skate different steps. 14 steps and 20 beats to one pattern.

The steps are in the rulebook's own notation: foot, direction and edge, with Pr for a progressive, Ch for a chassé, SwR for a swing roll, XB and XF for a cross step behind or in front, 3 for a three turn, CSt and SSt for C and S steps, Op for open and Cl for closed. From the step chart in US Figure Skating's 2026-27 rulebook.

The 14 Step is a brisk march, and US Figure Skating wants it danced, with soft knees in time with the music and a strong lean to reach proper edges at pace. Along the side the couple is in closed hold, the follow partner skating backward, through two progressive sequences either side of a four-beat swing roll with matching free legs.

The ends are where the dance turns over. The lead partner skates an open choctaw at Step 8 and checks rotation with the shoulders, and the couple moves into an offset closed hold. The follow partner then gradually moves ahead for an open choctaw of their own, and closed hold returns at Step 14.

British Ice Skating lists the 14 Step at National 5, as one of the dances to choose from. US Figure Skating tests it, as the Fourteenstep, at Pre-silver.

Appears in