Follower Right Turn
Level: basicStyle: laRole: bothType: turn
Also known as: right turn, follower right spin
Summary
The follower right turn is a fundamental partner turn where the follower rotates to the right, guided by a light overhead lead and grounded stepping rather than force.
Description
The follower right turn is one of the first partner turns learned in salsa and builds directly on the basic step. For both partners, the first three steps follow the exact same structure as a regular basic, which helps the turn feel natural rather than abrupt.
The turn is created through a clear invitation and gentle guidance rather than force. The leader suggests rotation by lifting the connected hand overhead, and the follower responds by turning only as much as feels comfortable. A full rotation is not required, and partial turns are common and completely acceptable.
This turn emphasizes balance, comfort, and connection. If the turn does not happen cleanly, both partners simply continue dancing the basic step and allow their positioning to resolve naturally on the next phrase. Clean follower turns prioritize ease and clarity over speed or visual precision.
Instructions
Lead
1
Step back with your right leg and transfer your weight onto the right leg.
2
Step in place with your left leg and transfer your weight onto the left leg.
3
Step forward with your right leg so it comes back underneath your body.
5
Step forward with your left leg and transfer your weight onto the left leg, preparing the turn.
6
Step in place with your right leg while gently lifting the connected hand overhead to suggest rotation.
7
Step forward with your left leg while guiding the follower’s hand in a smooth circular path above their head.
Follow
1
Step back with your right leg and transfer your weight onto the right leg.
2
Step in place with your left leg and transfer your weight onto the left leg.
3
Step forward with your right leg so it comes back underneath your body.
5
Step forward with your left leg and transfer your weight onto the left leg.
6
Step in place with your right leg as your hand is guided overhead and you begin turning to the right.
7
Step forward with your left leg, completing as much of the turn as feels comfortable and facing roughly toward the leader.
Lead Direction
The leader begins this turn without breaking the basic timing. Just before the turning step, the leader lightly invites the follower forward to indicate that a change is coming, then allows the follower to step in place rather than travel.
On the turning action, the leader raises the connected hand overhead and traces a clear, relaxed circular path. There should be no force at any point. If the follower does not begin turning on their own, the leader should abandon the turn rather than attempting to twist or push the arm.
As the follower steps down, the leader may use a small amount of guidance to help the follower face them again, but this should feel supportive rather than corrective. Any remaining alignment can be resolved naturally on the next basic step.
Tips
- Keep the turn relaxed and grounded rather than rushed.
- Allow the follower to turn only as much as they choose.
- Keep the hand overhead light and spacious.
- Let the next basic step clean up spacing and orientation.
Common Mistakes
- Using force to try to make the follower turn.
- Twisting the arm instead of guiding the hand.
- Expecting a full rotation every time.
- Continuing the turn when the follower does not respond.