How to Do Front to Back Partner Bachata Dance Steps

Performing the forward and back basic bachata dance steps is easy, but knowing when to do them requires that you be able to lead or be led by your dance partner. This requires careful attention to the cues provided by the leader.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Indicate to your partner that you want to perform the basic side step to the left (your partner's right) by applying leftward pressure with your right hand while it is on your partner's back while pulling your partner's right arm slightly to the left.

2. Tell your partner that you want to perform the basic side step to the right (your partner's left) by applying rightward pressure with your right hand and pulling your partner's right arm slightly to the right.

3. Use your right hand to pull your partner toward you to begin the basic back steps. Your partner will move forward to do the basic forward steps.

4. Release the pressure on your partner's back to allow him or her to move backward and begin the basic back steps while you move forward to do the basic forward steps.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that the basic side, back and forward dance steps are done in sets of two. For instance, you should perform the basic side steps in each direction before changing to forward or back dance steps.
• An attentive follower will watch the leader's shoulders to learn what his or her intentions are and anticipate the lead.
• Leading and following is not simply about the man taking control of the dance and the woman submitting. Rather the leader (of either sex) suggests, the follower (of either sex) interprets and then the leader must fit his or her dance steps to that of the follower's interpretation. However, dancing must begin with a definitive lead.

[bachatafusion]

on 6/23/2008 Forward and Back Basic could be very simple if done correctly. Always Remember Bachata basic consist of 3 step and the fouth step is always left where its at. To practice going forward, man starts with his Right leg at Tap Position. Then take 3 steps forward, Right,Left, Right and 4th Step is the left leg and its stays in the Back. so no matter what leg you use, its always 3 steps and 4th is left where its at. To learn more about dancing Bachata Please check out my Instructional DVD www.bachatafusion.com