How to Perform an Inside Turn

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:PerformInsideTurn
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How to Perform an Inside Turn

Introduction

The inside turn is quite possibly one of the most popular dance moves. There are two major types of turns: the inside turn and the outside turn. The inside turn allows the man to bring the woman towards him while twirling her. It is typically directly followed by an outside turn where the woman can connect into another dance step.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Steps

1

Step One

Begin by enacting the turn while standing in place (men). This is easier than trying the worry about your footwork when the woman is trying to perfect her role.
2

Step Two

Stand in a diagonal stance. Your partner should be facing the left-front of your body. This allows room for her to step forward into the turn without stepping on your toes.
3

Step Three

Take your partner's hands. Your left hand should be in her right hand and your right hand in her left hand. You want to place your fingers on her palms, which leaves more freedom for movement than interlocking fingers.
4

Step Four

With your left arm, pull her towards you. As you do this, be sure to lift her right arm up because it will be going over her head during the turn.
5

Step Five

Have your partner take one step towards you with her right foot.
6

Step Six

Continue holding onto her right hand with your left and lift her arm over her head in a counterclockwise motion. This promotes the turning direction.
7

Step Seven

Bring her arm down around her own body at the completion of the turn. You should still be holding on to both her hands. She will be hugging herself standing directly in front of you at the end of the turn with her back facing you.
8

Step Eight

Get her out of this position by turning her out the way she came in or letting go of her hands and allowing her to turn around while you dip her, or perform another dance move.
9

Step Nine

Try it with music once you have practiced the basic move a few times. You can perform an inside turn fast or slowly depending on the tempo of the music.

Overall Tips & Warnings

  • Be sure that your partner is not wearing rubber-soled shoes. She will have a hard time turning because the soles will stick to the dance floor.
  • If you are the woman stepping into the turn, put your weight on the ball of your foot. This makes turning more fluid.
  • Remember to wear deodorant (men). Your arm will be lifted while lifting your partner's arm, and you don't want to knock her out with your smell.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • Dance partner
  • Dance floor
  • Music
Tools: |