9 Leaders Turn

COURSE: Basic Turns

FOCUS: This lesson teaches leaders how to perform turns for themselves, starting with techniques similar to leading followers' outside turns but adapted for self-turning.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Keep hands closer to the body and higher to create space for turning under.
• Maintain the frame by keeping shoulders down and following the elbow during the turn.
• Drop the elbow at the end of the turn to avoid hitting the follower and keep it relaxed.
• For comfort, place the hand on your shoulder or behind the leg during the turn.
• In inside turns, change hand position to be below with a cupped grip and move it in front before turning.

REMEMBER:

• Always be able to see your elbow to maintain proper form and avoid injury.
• Keep the arm relaxed so it can slide back into hold smoothly after the turn.
• Adjust techniques like letting go of the hand for height differences or comfort.
• Practice turns slowly and take your time to ensure control and safety.