How to Do a Back Lock in International Cha Cha

The lock step is one of the most commonly used basic elements in the cha cha. It is necessary that you understand the mechanics of this step if you want to do any kind of cha cha dancing, whether it is social or competitive in nature. The lock step is generally done on the chasse rhythm or "cha cha cha" portion of the cha cha, and can either go forward or backward. Here you will learn the basics of doing a back lock.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dance shoes
• Mirror

1. Begin with your feet together, turned outward about 45 degrees from forward position. Place your left foot behind you in a point on the inside edge of the foot. This is beat "4."

2. Begin to transfer your weight onto your left leg. As you do so, bring your right leg in front and across your left leg. You should be on the balls of both feet at this point. Here, your legs will bend to support your weight; be careful, however, not to change height as you do so. You want to maintain your height level throughout this pattern, and the better you keep your weight supported by the balls of your feet, the less residual "bobbing" you will have when performing the step. This is beat "and."

3. On beat "1," use your right leg to push yourself backward again and absorb your weight with your left leg. End with your weight completely over your left leg and your right leg straight and pointed in front of you.

Tips & Warnings

• For extra practice, perform one lock after the other (i.e., "4 and 1", "2 and 3"...)
• Always practice slowly before doing the step full speed.