How to Follow a Basic Cross Body Lead

The cross body lead is a pattern seen in many social dancing environments and venues, and because of its relatively simple nature yet "pattern payout" of changing direction, it is a fun step that will never go out of style. Below are instructions on how to follow a basic cross body lead, using salsa as an example.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Know your own footwork. Begin by doing one full basic step to get in sync with each other. The man starts with his left going forward, and the lady starts with her right going backwards.

2. When it's crossbody time after the first basic step, the man opens up to the side on beat 3, and the lady walks through and collects her feet on beat by beat 7.

3. Before walking through on beats, "5, 6, 7," wait between half a beat to a full beat (i.e., beats "3 and" or take the whole 4 beat) to create a fun little pull connection between you and your partner. Although most guys will want to pull the lady forward as they step to the side, the more advanced dancers will allow a bit of elasticity on that part of the step so that the running across will be that much quicker.

Tips & Warnings

• It's much easier with a partner, but if you don't have one try dancing with something moveable like a shopping cart--it really does work.
• Always practice slowly and make sure both partners know their steps first before working on connection and leading/following.

Resources

• National Dance Council of America
• USA Dance