How to do The Inside Turn in Advanced Salsa

The inside turn is one of the basic moves in salsa dancing and is the start of many advanced moves. It can be done by either partner, but when performed by the woman there is an option to turn more than once.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Begin with the basic salsa steps. Step forward with the left foot, rock back onto the right foot, return your left foot to the starting position and pause for one beat. Step back with the right foot, rock forward onto the left foot, return your right foot to the starting position and pause for one beat.

2. Change to the open dance position during the basic moves by sliding your left hand down your partner's arm. You will be dancing while holding hands at the end of eight counts.

3. Lift the woman's left hand to indicate that you want her to do a counterclockwise turn under your arm. You may release the right hand or not depending on how you want the turn to look. If you don't release her hand, allow it to wrap around her as she turns and then turns in the other direction to unwrap her arm and return to the starting position.

4. Do the turn yourself by raising the woman's right hand and turning clockwise under her arm. You may release her hand or not, but don't wrap your right arm around you. Instead, move your left arm behind you as you turn.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to step with the ball of your foot first and employ Cuban motion. Hold your partner's hands loosely so you can adjust your grip as you turn and remain comfortable.

Resources

• See a video demonstrating the inside turn on Expert Village.