Leader's Waist Turn - East Coast Swing

🎉 Twist, Turn, and Swing: The Leader’s Waist Turn in East Coast Swing

So, you’ve mastered your triple steps, you’re rock-stepping like a champ, and now you’re thinking… “Hey, when do I get to spin?” Well, good news, Leader—this one’s for YOU. Let’s talk about the Leader’s Waist Turn in East Coast Swing: the move that lets you take a stylish spin without stealing the spotlight (too much 😉).

🕺 What Is the Leader’s Waist Turn?

The Leader’s Waist Turn is like the plot twist in your favorite rom-com—it’s unexpected, it’s smooth, and it changes everything.

While followers usually get the fancy turns, this move flips the script. Here, you turn yourself (gasp!) while keeping the connection with your partner. It's often used to change direction, add a little flair, or just show the world that leaders can have a little fun too.

🎶 How to Rock the Waist Turn (Step by Step)

Let’s break it down so you can turn with confidence and maybe even a little drama:

1. Rock Step (1, 2)

Leaders: Step back on your left foot, then replace your weight forward onto the right foot. Nothing new here—just your classic rock step. But don’t get too comfortable…

Followers: Dance a right foot back rock step, and don’t forget to let your hip swing.

2. Forward Triple Step (3 & 4)

Leaders: Now for the magic. Bring your left hand to your waist, dance a left foot forward triple step, and after you take your third step forward (with the left foot) on count 3, turn to your left (counterclockwise). Keep your hand low—this isn’t your partner’s turn!

Followers: Let the leader have this one 😉 Tracing your right hand around the leader’s waist, dance a right foot forward triple step as you curve in a clockwise direction. By count 4, you’ve completed about a half-turn and are now facing the opposite direction. Ta-da! You’ve just done a Waist Turn. Was that applause we heard?

3. Side Triple Step (5 & 6)

Leaders: Finish it off with a smooth right foot side triple step in your new direction. Add a little shoulder shimmy if you're feeling bold.

Followers: Reconnect with the leader’s hand as you dance a left foot side triple step.

💡 Quick Tips for a Snazzy Waist Turn

• Keep it grounded: No jumping or spinning like you're auditioning for "Dancing with the Stars." This is a calm, controlled turn.

• Hand low = Leader turn. Remember to bring your hand to the waist, since it is called a “Waist Turn”. Add some flair by bringing your right hand up and over like you’re doing a freestyle stroke.

• Triple with style: The turn is nice, but the way you exit matters too. Throw in some flair—maybe even a wink if you’re brave.

😎 Why the Waist Turn Rocks

• It’s unexpected. Most folks are watching the follower—this move lets the leader shine for a sec!

• Smooth transitions. It’s like a secret shortcut into other cool moves (like alternating turns or the Tuck Turn).

• You're not just a traffic cop! Leaders get to dance too—this proves it.

🚫 Common “Oops” Moments

• Lifting the arm too high. That says “go under the arm!” to your partner. Keep it low if you want to dance a Waist Turn

• Turning too fast. You’re not in a race. Keep it chill and stylish.

• Losing your balance. Stay grounded—imagine you’ve got butter on your shoes, not rockets.

🪩 In a Nutshell…

The Leader’s Waist Turn is your time to shine, twist, and spice up your swing. Use it as a surprise, a smooth transition, or a moment to show your dance floor charm.

And remember, East Coast Swing is meant to be fun, so don’t take yourself too seriously. Dance with joy, mess up with confidence, and turn like nobody’s watching (but they probably are, because you look awesome).

Want to learn it in person (with less tripping)? Join us for a dance lesson or class! We promise great music, fun moves, and maybe a few more twisty tricks up our sleeves. 💃🕺

Check out our latest YouTube video, which explains how to do the leader's waist turn in the East Coast Swing: