Bachata
Hammerlock
Also known as: Armlock, llave, candado
The folded-arm wrap. A wrapped position with the follow's arm gently folded behind her back.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
A position reached from an inside or outside turn where the follow's arm is folded gently behind her own lower back, the lead retaining the hand. It is both an entry move and a held position you can layer footwork, hip rolls, or a wave onto, and it unwinds via a reverse turn.
Key Points
- Lead: Lead the turn but, instead of releasing, guide the hand to the small of her back with comfortable tension — never crank the shoulder. Exit by reversing the turn.
- Follow: Let the arm fold gently, keep the shoulder relaxed, and stay on the basic until led out.
- Timing: Wrap in over one 4-count, hold or layer, unwind over the next.
- Common mistake: Lead cranking the arm too high or hard (shoulder strain); follow locking the elbow and resisting.
Style Notes
A hub position: a destination and a launchpad. SAFETY — comfort over depth; the arm height must be comfortable for the follow at all times.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Intermediate
- Type
- Frame
- Style
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