How to Do an Open Break in Salsa Dancing

An open break in salsa dancing is one of those building blocks that are important to learn. It adds style to your steps, and can prepare you for turns. While the woman doesn't vary her steps too much, the man has to remember to step back instead of forward, thus allowing the break to take place. Here's how.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin an open break from the ballroom position. You place your right hand on your partner's left shoulder, and place left hand in your partner's right. He'll place his right hand on your back, just below your shoulder blade.

2. Step back with your right foot as your partner steps forward with his left. Pick up your left foot and set it down in place, then step forward with your left foot as you partner picks up his right foot sets it down in place, then steps back with his right while you prepare to do an open break.

3. Go back with your left foot and place it beside your right as your partner steps forward with his right foot and places it beside his left.

4. Do an open break by stepping back with your right foot as your partner steps back with his left and lets his right hand fall from your back. Step forward with your right foot as your partner steps forward with his left.

5. Allow the man to gently push you away as you begin to do the open break, then pull you back toward him to finish the open break in salsa dancing.