Outside Turn
in Stockholm 🇸🇪
A turn where the follower rotates outward, away from the leader — the bold, expansive turn that opens up space and possibilities.
Why it matters
The outside turn is probably the most common turn in all of partner dance. It's in salsa, bachata, kizomba, zouk — everywhere. Master it and you've unlocked a universal movement that transfers across every dance floor on the planet.
The outside turn sends the follower spinning away from the leader — typically a clockwise rotation for the follower. It's the more dramatic cousin of the inside turn: bigger, more visible, and with more centrifugal energy. The outside turn naturally opens the partnership up, creating space for styling, transitions, and re-entries.
Beginner
Leader: raise your left hand and create a gentle clockwise arc for the follower. The energy comes from your body, transmitted through the hand — don't crank the arm. Follower: step forward, pivot on the ball of your foot, spot your partner, and complete the rotation.
Intermediate
Control the speed. A slow outside turn gives the follower time for arm styling. A sharp outside turn creates dramatic energy. Practice doubles — two full rotations on one prep. The key is consistent angular momentum.
Advanced
Outside turns become transition tools. An outside turn that stops at 90 degrees puts you in shadow position. One that stops at 180 gives you back-to-back. Use the turn exit as the entry to your next figure. The turn isn't the destination — it's the hallway.
Practice drill
With a partner: basic step, outside turn, basic step, outside turn. 20 repetitions. Then upgrade: basic step, double outside turn. Focus on smooth entry and exit, not speed.
Outside Turn in Stockholm
🌍
Help us map Stockholm
Know a club or instructor in Stockholm that teaches outside turn? Help the global bachata community by adding it.
Add a venue or instructor