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)