How to Perform the Chaine Turn Dance Move

A chaine (pronounced shin-ay) turn is a common move in ballroom and modern dancing. The chaine turn is a quick turn on alternating feet. This move is snappy rather than smooth and it provides a complete rotation for every two steps taken. Several turns may be executed successively to create a series of turns.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Extend one foot in front of the other in an extended third position. The instep of the back foot is at a slight angle pointed off of the center of the front foot.
2. Releve, or stand up on the balls of your feet. Turn your hips slightly to the direction you wish to turn.
3. Move your arms into first position. Place your hands in front of you, close at the chest. Bend your elbows.
4. Fix your eyes on a focal point in the direction of the turn. Keep your eyes fixed on this spot. When turning, whip your head around during the turns. Refocus your gaze on the same spot to keep turning. Good spotting technique will prevent you from getting dizzy and will keep you in a straight line during a progressive turn.
5. Bring the back foot forward while turning one-quarter of a turn. Land in first position. The feet should be together. Without stepping, change weight to the other foot and rotate another three-quarters of a turn to complete a full rotation.
6. Maintain a high releve throughout the turn.

Tips & Warnings

• Chaine turns should be used for small steps rather than large moving steps.
• Remain pulled up through the hips and thighs during the turn. The hips are the guide to proper placement.
• To learn any dance turn, break it into parts. Practice spotting first. Work on footwork once you have learned to spot. Add arm movements last.