Bachata
Body Wave — Back / Side
Also known as: Reverse wave, back wave, side wave
The wave, with a safety border. A backward or side body wave led top-down, kept upright to protect the spine.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
A body wave led for the follow in the backward or side direction. Led entirely through the frame and the follow's own core, top-down (chest, core, hips), keeping the follow upright because the backward direction approaches the lower-back danger zone.
Key Points
- Lead: SAFETY — lead top-down through the frame and her core; keep the follow upright. Never let a back wave become an unled cambré, and never lead it from the neck.
- Follow: Pull the chest back, then core, then hips, in sequence, staying over your own base.
- Timing: Over 2-4 counts.
- Common mistake: Over-arching the lower back ('bum out' posture) — keep it upright.
Style Notes
The bridge toward leans and dips, but only when the follow is upright and in control. Treat the backward direction with respect.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Intermediate
- Type
- Frame
- Style
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Own Body Wave — Back / Side, then make it yours
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