Bachata
Hand-to-Hand Change
Also known as: Cambio, hand change, hand swap
The connective tissue. A pure connector that passes the follow's hand to change the open hold.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
The connective tissue between figures: the lead passes the follow's hand from one hand to the other — often behind the back or overhead — to change between any open holds (L-to-R, R-to-R, two-hand, cross-hand). A pure connector and reset filler.
Key Points
- Lead: Pass the follow's hand from one hand to the other, often on a tap or pause; keep it smooth.
- Follow: Keep a soft, mobile hand; do not grip.
- Timing: Usually on the tap (4 or 8).
- Common mistake: Gripping or clamping the hand so it cannot pass, or bad timing causing a snag.
Style Notes
The humble glue of social bachata. Master it and you can re-route between any two open-hold moves on demand — the slot system in miniature.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Beginner
- Type
- Frame
- Style
Chains into
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