How to Do a Back Rock Salsa Move

In salsa, the back rocks, or "enchufles," are part of the basic vocabulary of the dance. Many of salsa's fancy moves originate from this basic step, so it's an important one for beginners to master. Mastering this step also helps you better understand the timing of salsa.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start with your feet together. From this position, step back at a 45-degree angle so your free foot moves behind your standing foot.

2. Shift your weight briefly to your back foot, then transfer your weight to your forward foot while keeping it in the same position.

3. Bring your back foot together with your front foot and change weight. Repeat the sequence on the other side.

4. Get the right timing by taking one step for each beat, so you're going through the whole back rock sequence every three beats.

5. Use the rest of your body once you master the footwork and timing. Twist your shoulders so they're in line with the foot moving back. At the same time, keep looking forward as you do the back rocks.

6. Add hip movements to accentuate the salsa rhythm.

Tips & Warnings

• Saying "back, in place, together" to yourself as you learn back rocks can help you master the timing.
• Though there are exceptions, followers generally mirror whatever the leader is doing.
• Leaders should keep weight off their heels as they step back. If you put your weight down, it's harder to step smoothly and keep the right timing. Because they're dancing in heels, followers generally don't have a problem with putting their weight down.