Bachata
Tap / Pop Basic (4 & 8)
Also known as: Pique
The signature snap of bachata. The hip pop on counts 4 and 8 that gives bachata its identity.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
The defining accent of bachata: on the fourth beat of each half-phrase, instead of a full weight transfer you tap a foot and pop the hip. It is layered onto any base pattern and is what makes a basic look and feel like bachata rather than a generic side step.
Key Points
- Lead: Mostly individual styling — let the hip pop fire naturally from the knee and ankle; do not force it from the waist.
- Follow: Add your own hip pop on the tap; this is your moment of personal flavour, not something the lead dictates.
- Timing: On counts 4 and 8 — the tap foot stays weightless while the hip snaps.
- Common mistake: Putting weight on the tap foot (it should stay light) or forcing the hip instead of letting it pop from the lower leg.
Style Notes
Both partners do their own pop. This is the first 'layer' a beginner learns to add on top of a base pattern, and it teaches the two-axis idea early.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
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- Beginner
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