How to Do Pivot Turn Bachata Dance Steps

Perhaps the most difficult move in the bachata is the pivot turn, in which the partners change position. It is best done from a closed position, so the leader can better indicate his or her intention with pressure on the follower's back and with a slight tug on his or her right hand.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Begin in the closed dance position with the basic side or forward and back dance steps.

2. Remember to dance in sets of 2. The leader always begins with the left foot, as in most other dances, so at the end of the second set (count 4), the leader is ready to step with his left foot.

3. Step back with the left foot, then forward with the right foot while turning 90 degrees.

4. Step back with the left foot, turning another 90 degrees, then forward with the right foot with a hip bump as when performing the forward basic step. You have now changed positions with your partner.

5. Continue with another pivot turn to return to the starting positions, or turn in the other direction, stepping forward on the right foot and back with the left foot while turning. You can also dance in place for the second set of four counts and then begin another dance combination.

Tips & Warnings

• Because you're turning while dancing, and because bachata is informal in style, it will sometimes seem as if the leader is stepping forward on the left foot instead of back. What's important is for the leader to start on the left foot.