Bachata
Lead's Half Turn (180)
Also known as: lead's 180, the man's turn
You spin too. A clean 180 where the lead turns himself while keeping the connection — the first move that puts *you* in the spotlight, not just your partner.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
The lead turns himself a half rotation while keeping a hand connected, so the two of you swap which way you're facing and the hand connection rolls over. The follow simply keeps the basic going while you make your move. It's the easiest way for a lead to add his own flourish.
Key Points
- Lead: Spot as you turn — pick a point, lead your basic into the half turn, and arrive balanced. Keep the connected hand soft so it can roll over your head or around without yanking her.
- Follow: Keep dancing your basic and hold a steady, light frame. Your job is to be the calm anchor he turns against.
- Timing: Turn across 1-2-3, land and resolve on 4.
- Common mistake: Dropping the connection mid-turn because the hand path feels awkward. Take it slow and let the hand travel over your own head.
Style Notes
The beginner version of the lead's own turning — a 180, not a full 360 (that's the Lead's Turn, B015, built on this). A great confidence move: it teaches leads that they get to dance too.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Beginner
- Type
- Frame
- Style
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This page is free, always. Your online coach goes further on every move you own — styling that makes it look like you, variations to keep it fresh, and how to hit it on the music.
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