Swing Out

8-count · Beginner

Lindy hop's basic eight-count move: the couple meets in the middle and pivots together, instead of just passing each other.

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  1. Starts in open position, follow at the end of the slot.
  2. On 1-2 the follow comes in; on 3-4 the lead closes the frame and turns them around half a circle.
  3. Send out on 5-6, ends open at the other end of the slot.

Not to be confused with: Swing Out from Closed,Lindy Circle,Texas Tommy,Slingshot,Hip Catch,Swing Out with Swivels (follow)

Understanding the move

Count by count

  • 1-2: the follow walks straight at the lead without braking; the joined hands stay low, around hip height.
  • 3-4: the lead's right arm wraps around the follow's back; close together, knees bent, they pivot without losing that contact.
  • 5-6: the lead's right arm comes away; only their left hand stays, and the arms lengthen into the stretch.

Usual mistakes

  • The follow brakes on the way in: the rotation loses its momentum.
  • The lead's right arm stays stiff on 3-4: the couple turns at arm's length.

Variations and related moves

  • Swing Out with Inside Turn
  • Swing Out with Outside Turn
  • Swing Out with Free Spin

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