The salsa basic step is the foundational repeating pattern of salsa, establishing timing, weight transfer, and rhythm for both partners.
The back basic is a variation of the basic step where the dancer steps backward on the break, reversing the direction of the front basic while keeping the same timing and structure.
The leader right turn is a foundational self-rotation where the leader turns to the right using stepped movement rather than spinning, requiring space and a transition into open hold.
The follower right turn is a fundamental partner turn where the follower rotates to the right, guided by a light overhead lead and grounded stepping rather than force.
Create a small backward incline supported through the follower legs and a stable partner frame.
Use a loose two-hand wrap and release it before a turning exit.
Thread alternating overhead hand arches as a slow two-part partner exchange.
Add a leader turn as the follower completes a cross-body passage.
Coordinate an independent leader turn with a follower half-turn into a loose wrap.
Build three clockwise follower rotations from a prepared stationary spinning axis.
The side basic is a foundational salsa step that shifts weight laterally, helping dancers develop balance, rhythm, and control without traveling forward or backward.
Practice the LA On1 forward-and-back basic with a partner in closed hold, keeping clear timing, a comfortable frame, and your own balance.
Release closed frame into open hold while preserving the partnered basic.
Turn the leader counterclockwise while the follower maintains the basic rhythm.
Create a gentle stretch in open hold by breaking away together, then return without pulling.
Open a lane from open hold and guide the follower across to exchange places.
Exchange the follower hand between the leader hands without interrupting the basic.
Open a lane from closed hold and guide the follower across to exchange places.
Finish a cross-body lead, then release a prepared follower right turn on the following phrase.
Enter a loose same-direction cuddle with the follower in front and offset from the leader.
Use brief, light upper-arm contact to reconnect after a completed follower turn.
Add a small follower triple step to cross-body travel while keeping the final supporting foot unchanged.
Enter the cuddle through a left half-turn, then unwind right to face each other.
Use a compact right-foot hook to make a follower clockwise turn without hand assistance.
Pass the follower hand over their own head as a relaxed styling release during the basic.
Release a low hammerlock connection before unwinding into an independent turn.
Practice two compact clockwise leader rotations while the follower keeps time.
Place a relaxed arm behind the shoulder line as a brief styling connection, without loading the neck.
Link cross-body leads while gradually redirecting the shared slot to make a zig-zag pathway.
