Latvian Polka

This dance is performed in pairs in a large circle, moving counter-clockwise. The girl places her right hand on her own shoulder, while the boy places his right arm over the girl's shoulder and into her hand. The couple holds each other's left hand in front of their bodies.

The steps used are heel-toe steps (Jenka steps to the side), two-steps, and walking steps.

Explanation

1. Take two heel-toe steps with the left foot (1–4) (left foot diagonally out, simultaneously a small hop on the right foot). Then take two heel-toe steps with the right foot (5–8).
2. Then dance two two-steps forward, with the left foot first (1–4). The boy continues four steps forward (or two two-steps), while the girl goes two rounds clockwise under the boy's right arm (5–8). Repeat the dance.

Finished Dance (with turn):

As above, but when the couple dances the Jenka step to the right, they turn half a turn to the right, turn back to the front, and continue dancing.

Partner Change: When the girl goes around, she turns forward to the boy in front in the circle. The boy takes slightly shorter steps and waits for a new partner.

Progression (Learning)

It is an advantage if participants have previously learned Mr. Smett, Treklappspolka, Jenka, and Letkajenka, all of which contain elements from Latvian Polka.

When learning Strekkpolka, one can start with everyone in one long line. The leader goes in front and guides the line in curves and semi-circles, performing various steps that fit the music, and steps that will later reappear in Latvian Polka. Participants imitate. Finally, one ends up with the combination:

• two Jenka steps to each side
• two two-steps
• four walking steps

This is then practiced in pairs in a circle with the correct handhold. All that remains is to practice the girl going around while the couple dances forward.

It can be wise to start with the girl going one round, and extend it gradually.