Rumba - Open Hip Twist

A very common step in Rumba, especially in combination with the Fan and Hockey Stick, the Open Hip Twist is much what it says it is.

Leaders'/Men's Footwork

Starting in open position (one hand hold), with your weight on your Right foot, you will step forward onto your Left foot on count 2. Bring your weight back onto your Right foot on count 3. Place your Left foot beside your Right on Count 4 and use until the end of count 1 to transfer your weight fully onto that leg. (It is your weight transfer that will cause the Lady to do the twist part of her step... so ensure that your lead arm does not go behind your body and that you do the full weight transfer.

Followers'/Lady's Footwork

Starting in open position (one hand hold), with your weight on your Left foot, step back onto your Right foot (like in the basic) on count 2 and then replace your weight to the Left foot on count 3. Your partner should lead you to step forward onto your Right foot, coming towards him as he stays in the same place. The lead arm therefore becomes a lot more compact. Dont allow your elbow to get behind your body at any point. As you and your partner both settle into your hips at the end of the 4-1 count, his hip movement, will cause you to pivot on your Right leg and finish facing the wall that was to your right. You should still have connection with your partner through your Right arm, but it is also wrapped in front of your body at this point.

Notes for both the Leader and the Follower:

- The pivot at the end must not be rushed into by the follower, but also needs to be distinctly created by the Leader as he changes the weight from one foot to the other. In order to make this transition the most effective, both parties, need to be very aware of their arm placement and the connection between them.