---
title: 1 Changing Direction
description: 
published: true
date: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z
tags: Blues
editor: markdown
dateCreated: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z
---

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## FOCUS 
- This lesson teaches the side-by-side variation of changing directions in dance, starting from a closed position and focusing on body turns and shuffling to change direction smoothly.
## TIP & TRICKS:
- Leaders should turn their body slightly and face the partner to signal direction changes without pushing with the arm.
- Maintain a nice and close position with the hand on the opposite side of the follower to avoid being too far apart.
- When opening into side-by-side, form a nice open V position and keep weight slightly forwards to facilitate easier traveling.
- Practice with a two-count basic step underneath the body while rotating to change directions.
- To reconnect into closed position, turn again but not completely and place the hand on the follower's left side.

##REMEMBER
- Changing direction involves turning on the spot or traveling, with options to combine both for variation.
- Leaders should use body movement rather than arm pressure to signal turns, releasing the follower to indicate direction changes.
- Maintain forward weight to prevent rock steps and make traveling forwards and backwards smoother.
- The side-by-side variation can be done in place or with traveling, allowing for improvisation and multiple repetitions as desired.
