Demo
Summary
The essential "finishing move" for Country Swing. This version utilizes a squat technique rather than a lunge, ensuring the Lead uses their legs for power while keeping the chest high. When executed correctly with proper balance, the Lead’s arm serves only as a safety shelf, not a lifting mechanism.
Instruction (Lead)
- Step with your right foot, bringing the Follow in toward your right side.
- Check your watch by bringing your left hand across your face to prep the turn. Guide the Follow to spin over her left shoulder.
- As she spins (momentarily facing the same direction as you), place your right hand firmly in the center of her upper back.
- Finish the spin by stepping out with your left foot. Simultaneously bring your left hand to your left shoulder. Crucial: This is the visual cue that tells the Follow a dip is coming.
- Ensure you are hip-to-hip, facing opposite directions.
- Squat down, using your right leg as a shelf for the Follow to rest her back on.
- Drive up through your legs to bring her back to standing.
Instruction (Follow)
- Step with your left foot and begin to spin over your left shoulder.
- Once you feel the Lead's hand on the center of your back, bring your left arm over his right arm. Safety: Keep your arm at shoulder height; do not hit his jaw or face.
- Continue the spin until you are hip-to-hip with your Lead, facing the opposite direction.
- Allow the Lead to guide you down. Bend at your knees as if you were getting baptized, leaning back while keeping your spine straight. Rest your back on his leg.
- Important: Do not bend at your lower back, as this causes strain.
- Engage your core and come back up when the Lead guides you.
Footwork
- Lead:
- Right (Forward) - Left (Turn)
- Follow:
- Left (Forward) - Right (Turn) - Left (Back)
Troubleshooting (FAQ)
Q: Why do I need to touch my left shoulder (Lead)?
A: This is a non-verbal communication cue. Bringing your hand to your shoulder signals to the Follow that the turn is finished and she needs to be close for a dip, rather than spinning out to an open position.
Q: My back hurts after being dipped (Follow). What is happening?
A: You are likely "breaking" at the waist or arching your back. Think of the "Baptized" motion: your body stays straight like a plank, and the movement comes from bending your knees and leaning back as a single unit.
Q: The Follow feels heavy or unstable. How do I fix this (Lead)?
A: Check your leg position. You must squat (hips down), not lunge (leaning forward). If you create a solid "shelf" with your right thigh, she rests her weight there. If you lean forward, you are holding her weight entirely with your arm and back.
Q: Where should the Follow's left arm go?
A: It should drape over the Lead's support arm (his right arm). Keep it at shoulder level. If you go too high, you might accidentally strike the Lead in the face during the spin or dip.
Special Thanks to...
Dancers:
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