7 Salsa Outside Turn Variations Worth Learning

Today’s focus is on outside turn variations in salsa.

If you haven’t already watched the previous video on inside turn variations, check it out. The goal of both videos is to show you that while it might seem like salsa has a million different turns, there really are only a hand full of fundamental movements. Once you know and understand them you’ll realize how everything else is just a variation of them, allowing you to stop focusing on patterns and start improvising more naturally.

7 Salsa Outside Turn Variations Worth Knowing

1. Outside Turn (left to right parallel handhold)
2. Outside Turn (right to left parallel handhold)
3. Outside turn (free spin from the hips, shoulder, or hand)
4. Outside turn to hammerlock (right to left handhold)
5. Outside turn (right to right handshake handhold)
6. Semi circle/windmill (right to right handhold)
7. Touch and Go (crossed hands, right on top)
8. Bonus: Behind the back hand-switch (start with a left to right handhold, switch to right to right handhold)

Final Thoughts

If you enjoyed these variations, check out our online Salsa Program for full breakdowns and structured learning that helps you go beyond memorization. Each lesson is designed to make you a confident, musical, and adaptable social dancer.