Beginner
Inside Turn
Beginner Level
The foundation — what every new dancer needs to know
A turn where the follower rotates inward, toward the leader — the quieter, more intimate cousin of the outside turn.
Beginner focus
Leader: raise your left hand and guide the follower to turn to their left (counterclockwise). The lead comes from a gentle lift and forward motion, not a push. Follower: spot your partner, keep your core tight, and step through the turn.
Tips
- •The inside turn feels tighter than the outside turn. Give the follower slightly less momentum — the shorter rotation distance means less energy needed.
Common mistakes
- •Leading it like an outside turn — different hand path
- •Follower taking too big a step and losing balance
- •Not giving enough prep signal before the turn
Practice drill
Alternate 8 turns: inside, outside, inside, outside. Keep the rhythm constant. The transition between the two should feel seamless — same prep, different direction.