Figure

Lead

Amt. of turn (lady)

1

Basic

Man starts with left foot and changes weight on each beat of music.

turn may be used

2

Arm Circles

As couple comes together,
palms join and go up and out.
Then back to double hand hold as move apart.

3

Comb

Double hand hold:
Man takes ladies hands behind head (as if combing his hair back with their hands)
Lady then pushes off man’s chest back to double hand hold.

4

Underarm Turn

Man releases right hand and
raises left hand above the lady’s eyes.
Lady does complete turn (natural) to right.

1/8 on each step

5

Side Steps

Instead of dancing in place,
Take a small step to side with each step.

6

Side Step variation

Lead the lady one way and go the other way.
As you separate, trail hands along arms.
Come back together.

7

Armlock Turn

Double hand hold.
Man leads lady into underarm turn
but doesn’t let go of right hand.
(joined hand will be behind lady’s back)

1/8 on each step

8

Back to back

Cross back to back to armlock on other side.

Other figures

Practically any figure you know from the other Latin dances, Jive, cha cha cha, can be used in the Merengue.