Quick Stop

8-count · Intermediate

A sudden stop mid-flow: after a quick turn, the couple freezes in counterbalance to hit a break in the music.

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  1. As a swing out (or a sugar push) comes back to open, the lead raises the joined hand straight up, no circling.
  2. The follow turns on the spot under it; the hand comes straight down fast and both freeze at arm's length, the follow sitting on the bent back knee, the lead sitting back to counterbalance.
  3. Hold the stop on the break, then carry on with a swing out.

Not to be confused with: Swing Out with Free Spin

Understanding the move

How it goes

  • From a swing out, at the end of the rotation: the lead's left hand is already starting to rise; their right hand leaves the follow's back.
  • During the turn, just one and quick, the lead widens their stance and bends their knees.
  • In the stop: the follow's front leg stretches out, foot on the floor, free arm straight up; the lead leans their torso toward them.

Usual mistakes

  • The lead circles the hand as for an outside turn: it strains the follow's shoulder.
  • The lead doesn't sit back: at full speed the follow's weight can pull them over, and the follow is the one at risk.

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Michael Quebec

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