How to Do Under Arm Turns for Ladies in Jive Dancing

Jive dancing, also known as jitterbug jive, developed out of classic jitterbug and swing dance styles in the 1940s. Gaining popularity once again across the United States, jive dancing incorporates a number of turns, lifts and overhead movements to create a style similar to East coast swing. With a few tips, you can add under arm turns to your lady's jive dancing routine today.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin with a jive dancing rock step to begin the ladies under arm turn. To complete a rock step, move your right foot just behind your left as your turn your right hip out. Once you have stepped down with your right foot, lift your left foot slightly making a very small step and then return your right foot and hip to beginning position.

2. Triple step as you set your right foot down, that is, step down with your right foot and then draw your left foot in towards your right for the second step. Moving to the right, take the final step with your right foot and then place all of your weight onto your the ball of your right foot.

3. Allow your partner to lift your arm and them move under your arm, making a full clock-wise rotation. When you complete the turn, place your left hand once again on your partner's upper arm and take two steps to the left, moving right foot to left foot, to complete the ladies under-arm turn.

4. Repeat the basic jive dancing moves in combination with the basic rotate the base steps, moving in a 4- or 5-foot radius as you dance.