How to Do a Stop Turn Move in Swing Dancing

Swing dancing began in the 1930s in Harlem, New York and has grown into an exercise and style phenomena. The stop turn move allows energy and momentum to build between the dance partners as they use each other's hands as springboards. It is a good idea to practice this move in a wide-open space with no obstacles to prevent injury.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Start by standing in the open position a few feet distant from your partner. The open position means holding your partner's right hand with your left hand with both sets of feet together.
2. Drop your left hand, exchanging it for your right as you change into the handshake position. Your left arm is now by your side and your partner has not moved positions.
3. Pull your partner toward you with your with the right hand but keep your feet still. Your partner will step forward two steps beginning on the left foot.
4. Raise your hand up in front of the center of your chest, bending at the elbow with your palm out flat. This movement prevents your partner running into you and prepares your hand for the springboard move in step 5.
5. Push your right hand straight towards your partner forcing them to swing their right arm out slightly to the side. The partner should be able to see their right elbow joint throughout this step and the next as this shows they are maintaining their dance frame.
6. Continue to push on your partner's arm until your hand reaches just above their head and allow your partner to use the hand to pivot on right foot. Your feet have not moved.
7. Hold your partner's hand as they turn all the way around and back to the handshake position of step 2.