Introduction
The purpose of this guide is to give the Beginner LA Style Salsa dancer a brief over view of the first 30 moves or techniques that should be learnt in a clear and logical order which ensure progression from absolute novice to competent beginner.
This guide should be used in conjunction with Salsa lessons from your Instructor, mainly as an aide-memoir or checklist.
We have categorised the Beginners into 4 Levels. Make sure you work through in the correct order.
You will find included:
1) Beginners Checklist of 30 figures (moves)
2) Beginners Checklist of 9 Footwork figures (shines)
3) Beginners Checklist of 6 practice combinations (turn patterns)
Essential Salsa Terms
1. CLH – Closed Hold
2. DBLHH – Double Hand Hold
3. OH – Open Hold
4. L to R OH – Leader’s Left hand to Follower’s Right hand Open Hold
5. R to L OH – Leader’s Right to Follower’s Left Open Hold
6. Pointed Gun – Salsa hand connection with Leader’s index finger lightly over Follower’s hooked finger tips
7. CBL – Cross Body Lead
8. COHBTB – Change of Hands behind the back
9. [EXERCISE] – This means practice this particular item
10. [RECAP] – This means it’s something that was mentioned earlier, recap over that item before moving on – this enforces your knowledge and aims to help muscle memory
Beginners Level 1
Step 1:
1. Check you know the following basics:
a. Back basic
b. Side Basic
c. Cumbia basic
d. Mambo
2. [EXERCISE] Lead / Follow of all 4 basics in closed and double hand hold, transitioning between the 2
Points to note:
a. Weight transfer and moving through the basic step (Mambo)
b. Double Hand hold – point gun hold, Follower’s curved hook, follower’s waist height – L shape connection
c. Closed Hold – connection points, leading from the Follower’s left shoulder (not the joined hands)