Putting together individual patterns is what provides for the real fun and creativity in ballroom dance. This video shows an exciting combination of Salsa patterns -- a Back Spot Turn to an Arm Catch to a Lady's Free Spin. The fast pace of Salsa and it's emphasis on lots of turns means the gentleman must be able to set up for the patterns he combines and leads. The Back Spot Turn begins with an Open Break. You'll notice that the Open Break is, in fact, the setup for the Turn itself, getting the partners in open dance position.
Video 1 shows our Salsa Combination first and then breaks down the footwork for both the man and the lady, as it goes through all three of the patterns in the Combination. Video 2 shows the all important man's lead for the Salsa Combination, with emphasis on the correct leads the gentleman employs with his arms and hands. You'll see how each pattern allows the gentleman to "set" for the next pattern in the series. The man should remember to stay in a stationary position during the Back Spot Turn and the Arm Catch, not attempt to move around his partner. The lady, for her part, should remember not to grab onto the man during the Arm Catch.
