6 Side by side Suspended Pivot Turn

COURSE: dips-tricks-2

FOCUS: This lesson teaches a side-by-side suspended pivot turn that builds on a previous move, with the key difference being an open hand connection that creates a more dramatic, stretched position.

TIP & TRICKS:

• Leaders take one step less than in the previous version - step, step, shuparub, step, step.
• Followers maintain energy in the direction of movement rather than stopping next to the leader.
• Followers should think about 'melting' into the position with upper and lower body moving around the connection point.
• Practice with the feeling of nearly falling over to find the dramatic edge of the movement.
• Leaders use a big, dramatic step to propel themselves in front of the follower during the turn.

REMEMBER:

• The main difference from the previous move is not reconnecting the top hand, creating a more open position.
• The pivot turn happens simultaneously with the leader's step, which initiates the rotation.
• The connection becomes side-by-side with a sideways lean away from each other rather than front-facing counterbalance.
• The movement should feel dramatic, stretchy, and 'gooey' rather than safe and controlled.
• Followers use the leader's arm across their back as a reference point for body positioning.