The Natural Spin Turn is a classic ballroom dance figure used in the Waltz and Quickstep, and occasionally in Foxtrot. I’ve even applied it in Tango. It begins with a pivot — the man moving backward on the ball of the foot while the lady moves forward — and transitions into a spin and rise. Though widely used, this figure is often performed poorly due to several common technical mistakes.
In this short video tutorial, George and Wendy look at the most frequent mistakes dancers make during the Natural Spin Turn, providing practical advice to help both partners improve their execution. Mastering these details will improve your performance and fluidity, whether you are a casual social dancer or more serious about good technique.
Lowering the Heel Too Soon (Leads)
One of the most frequent errors men make when performing the Natural Spin Turn is dropping the heel during the pivot. Doing so locks the foot in place, making the pivot ineffective. It prevents proper foot alignment, disrupts rotation, and places undue pressure on the knee. It also halts the lady’s rotation, which should be continuous.
Solution: Men should stay on the ball of the foot throughout the pivot, keeping the heel lifted until the rotation is complete and both feet point in the new direction.
Lifting the Free Foot (Leads)
During the pivot, some men lift the non-weighted foot, causing a loss of balance and instability.
Solution: Keep the free foot lightly skimming the floor to maintain balance and control.
No Body Rotation Before Pivot (Leads)
Another mistake Natural Spin Turn is stepping straight back without rotating the torso. This limits pivoting potential and causes the lady to lose connection and direction.
Solution: Begin rotating the torso early, guiding the lady with the body’s center (e.g., belly button).
Dropping the Heel Too Early (Follows)
Ladies often drop their right heel too soon during their forward pivot action, which stalls their rotation and disrupts the man’s pivot.
Solution: Stay on the ball of the foot until the pivot is complete and the man’s lead indicates to lower.
Not Creating Space After Pivot (Follows)
After the pivot, some ladies fail to release the left foot back to create space for the man, blocking his forward movement and causing balance issues.
Solution: Ladies should “scoop back” to open space for the man, brushing the feet through to stay aligned and balanced.
Mastering these elements ensures a smooth, elegant Natural Spin Turn with proper partnership and flow.
These are the most common mistakes in the Natural Spin Turn. If you’re interested in learning to dance, check out our group classes or contact us for private lessons or more information.
The post Video: Common Mistakes in the Natural Spin Turn first appeared on Delta.Dance.
