Bachata
The Lean
Also known as: Lean-in, incline (regional)
A supported incline, not a drop. A controlled lean-in supported through the frame, kept within the follow's range.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
A controlled incline — not a full drop — where the lead provides a counterbalance and controls the depth so the follow's spine stays within her limit. The more upright, the safer.
Key Points
- Lead: SAFETY — support through the frame and back-of-shoulder contact, controlling depth so her spine stays within her range. Lead the recovery actively; keep it upright.
- Follow: Engage the core and maintain your line; you have little control over depth here, so you must be able to abort, and the lead must not exceed your range.
- Timing: Down on an accent, hold briefly, recover.
- Common mistake: Going past the follow's back flexibility — risky because the follow cannot easily self-limit depth.
Style Notes
PARTNER-ONLY. Never on unknown partners. The first step in the dips family, and the safest, because it stays relatively upright.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Advanced
- Type
- Frame
- Style
Chains into
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Own The Lean, then make it yours
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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