(Bachata) That pretty-but-puzzling move, broken down step by step with Mongu & Rafle~ LATIN open class

“Your right hand has to arrive at exactly the right spot — that's how much she gets to turn.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: pointing out that when the follow can't turn as far as she wants, it's the leader's hand not going far enough

“The lady's frame never — ever — collapses inward from that bracket shape.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: describing the shape of an open frame and stressing that it must not break

“If the guy doesn't push into the frame, she just stops right there and can't turn. That's why she isn't turning.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: pinpointing why the turn doesn't happen in the bracket frame without the leader's push

“The foundation of bachata is the step turn. If the guy doesn't keep pushing, she can't walk and she can't turn.”

CHOA's note: explaining how the step turn works, stressing that once you're open the follow can't move without a lead

“Before she drifts away, you actually pull in a little and then give her a small open.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: explaining how to control the lead so the follow doesn't suddenly get pulled away when you open

“You're not lifting — you have to angle it downward, and that's what lets the lady create her tilt.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: explaining that angling down rather than lifting the arm is what makes the follow's shape come out naturally

“Your upper arm has to stay on her side for her to bend properly. Meaning: don't rush it.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: advice to hold the upper arm's position and travel slowly instead of rushing through the move

“Moving forward here isn't a turn. A turn needs energy that clearly carries you over.”

CONTEXTCHOA's note: separating a turn from mere movement, calling out how many students mistake the prep for the turn and spin early