Salsa MovesLibrary

Cuddle

Level: improverStyle: laRole: bothType: wrap
Also known as: Cuddle Practice

Summary

Enter a loose same-direction cuddle with the follower in front and offset from the leader.

Cuddle salsa move (la, improver)

Salsa Cuddle

Betty Oyer · 1 of 3

Description

Enter a loose same-direction cuddle with the follower in front and offset from the leader.

Use On1 timing: six regular weight changes on 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, 7 unless an explicitly counted spin recovery, syncopation or held accent is described. Rotation without a step does not add a weight transfer.

Practice the position first; release either hand immediately if an arm feels trapped.

Instructions

Lead

1
Beat 1: Step left back with weight in two-hand hold.
2
Beat 2: Replace weight onto right.
3
Beat 3: Close left with weight and prepare the left-to-right arch.
5
Beat 4: Pause without an extra step; allow rotation to settle.
6
Beat 5: Step right in place with weight. Invite a counterclockwise half-turn; keep the other hand low and loose in front of the follower waist.
7
Beat 6: Step left in place with weight.
8
Beat 7: Step right in place with weight.
9
Beat 8: Pause without an extra step; keep your balance for the next 1.

Follow

1
Beat 1: Step right back with weight.
2
Beat 2: Replace weight onto left.
3
Beat 3: Close right underneath you with weight.
5
Beat 4: Pause without an extra step; allow rotation to settle.
6
Beat 5: Step left forward with weight into a counterclockwise half-turn.
7
Beat 6: Step right around to the left with weight.
8
Beat 7: Step left underneath you with weight, ending with your back toward the leader and arms loose in front.
9
Beat 8: Pause without an extra step; keep your balance for the next 1.

Lead Direction

Stop the invitation at a comfortable half-turn; do not cinch the arms around the torso.

Tips

  • Practice the position first; release either hand immediately if an arm feels trapped.
  • Practice slowly with small steps and keep your own supporting balance.

Common Mistakes

  • Holding fingers tightly so the connection cannot swivel or release.
  • Continuing a turn after losing the shared rhythm or your own balance.
Cuddle – Salsa Steps, Tips & Common Mistakes | Salsa Moves