Salsa
Right Turn (Lady's Underarm)
The first turn everyone learns. A clockwise underarm turn for the follow, returning to the same spot.
Coach's notes — the how & why
What This Move Is
The lead raises the joined L-to-R hand straight up with a slight clockwise lead, sending the follow into an in-place clockwise (right) rotation under the arm. She returns to the same position facing the lead. The most fundamental partnered turn.
Key Points
- Lead: Raise the hand straight up — not sideways — and give a small clockwise indication; don't crank the arm across.
- Follow: Step forward and rotate clockwise under the raised arm, spotting to stay on balance.
- Timing: On1 prep ~3, raise on 4, turn 5-6-7. On2 prep ~6, turn 7-8-1.
- Common mistake: Yanking the arm sideways instead of lifting straight up; wrong prep foot.
Style Notes
"Right turn" (in place) overlaps with the "outside turn" when done off a cross-body — the difference is whether it travels the slot. Keep arms soft so the follow controls her own rotation. Cuban casino has its own showcase version of the lady’s right turn: see Exhíbela.
Quick notes, not instruction — always learn moves in person with a qualified teacher.
- Musical use
- Level
- Beginner
- Type
- Frame
- Style
Chains into
After this, you can flow into…
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See also
Related figures worth knowing alongside this one.
One way to flow
Go deeper with your coach
Own Right Turn (Lady's Underarm), then make it yours
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