As is true in other couple dances we do in the SCA as well, men stand on the left, women stand on the right. When holding hands, then man supports the woman's hand. The handhold should probably be low rather than high. This isn't much discussed in period texts, but we piece together what we canfrom period pictures of people dancing. Most bransles are danced in a circle and do not require partners.
Movement is from side to side.
Kicks and jumps are also used. The steps themselves are fairly simple to do, but some of the patterns may be complex to remember. Musicians will often speed up each time the music is repeated. I have noted A and B parts in many of the dances. Usually the A Part will be played twice, then the B part is played twice.