Ready to level up your Latin dance skills? As an intermediate dancer, you’ve got the basics down—now it’s time to refine your technique and add flair. These five moves will elevate your salsa, bachata, and cha-cha with style and precision.
1. The Cross Body Lead with Inside Turn (Salsa)
The foundation of salsa partnering! Master this to create seamless transitions and set up shines. Lead your partner across your body while signaling an inside turn for a dynamic effect.
2. Bachata Sensual Side Step
This sultry variation replaces the basic side-to-side with body rolls and hip circles. Sync your movement with the guitar-heavy bachata rhythm for maximum impact.
3. Cha-Cha Chase (Cha-Cha-Chá)
A playful back-and-forth where partners "chase" each other with syncopated steps. Perfect for showing off quick footwork and flirtatious energy.
4. Spiral Turn (Salsa/Bachata)
A dramatic turn where the follower spirals down and up with controlled momentum. Works beautifully as a dip alternative in social dancing.
5. Cuban Motion Drill (All Styles)
The secret sauce of Latin dance! Practice isolations that make your hips flow naturally with the music. This isn’t a move per se—it’s the technique that makes every move shine.
Practice these moves slowly at first, then gradually match them to the music’s tempo. Remember: In Latin dance, precision beats speed every time. Now go light up the dance floor!
