The fact of its being a dance altogether in one position calls for greater skill in the execution of the Boston, than would be the case if there were other changes and contrasts possible, just as it is more difficult to play a melody upon a violin of only one string.
The Boston, in its completed form, resolves itself into a sort of walking movement, so natural and easy that it may be enjoyed for a whole evening without more fatigue than would be the result of a single hour of the Waltz and Two-Step.
Aside from the attractiveness of the Boston as a social dance, its physical benefits are more positive than those of any other Round Dance that we have ever had. The action is so adjusted as to provide the maximum of muscular exercise and the minimum of physical effort. This tends towards the conservation of energy, and produces and maintains, at the same time an evenness of blood pressure and circulation. The movements also necessitate a constant exercise of the ankles and insteps which is very strengthening to those parts, and cannot fail to raise and support the arch of the foot.
Taken from any standpoint, the Boston is one of the most worthy forms of the social dance ever devised, and the distortions of position which are now occasionally practiced must soon give way to the genuinely refining influence of the action.
Of the various forms of the Boston, there is little to be said beyond the description of the manner of their execution, which will be treated in the following pages.
It is hoped that this book will help toward a more complete understanding of the beauties and attractions of the Boston, and further the proper appreciation of it.
All descriptions of dances given in this book relate to the lady's part. The gentleman's is exactly the same, but in the countermotion.
THE LONG BOSTON
The ordinary form of the Boston as described in the foregoing pages is commonly known as the "Long" Boston to distinguish it from other forms and variations. It is danced in 3/4 time, either Waltz or Mazurka, and at any tempo desired. As this is the fundamental form of the Boston, it should be thoroughly acquired before undertaking any other.