Forward Ochos
Forward Ochos
Many entrances to forward ochos. Example: from 8-step basic, after pos 5.
RF crosses in front, extend straight R leg, distinct moment showing leg extension.
When bending L knee to extend R leg further, do not drop down knee, instead, think about bending knee forward by lifting the heel. Should not be downward heavy feeling. Should be upward lifting feeling even when L knee is bending.
Move weight onto R leg, start with a straight R leg
Have a distinct moment showing leg extension: L leg is left straight in the back extended before collecting L leg.
over rotate upper body first (very twisted upper body) which brings hip to rotate, don't try to swing hips to help with twist.
can bend knee for more twist effect (can swivel on straight R leg as ell)
If R knee is bent, don't drop knee down to bend, instead, raise the heel up so head height doesn't change
Collect LF to RF, L knee slightly bent, hip will keep over rotating to R, it becomes very twisted position on the other side.
Right after swiveling on RF, L leg extend straight out and cross. Repeat.
Pay special attention to leave arm to Man when doing swivel, less tension. Do not try to keep back/shoulder flat line like ballroom. Let arm breathe (contract or expand). Focus on keeping the hand position with Man.
Hand: don't push and resist pressure, take in the lead, follow but keep soft. Always keep "relaxed and connected" frame.
Do not go into ochos with too much power.
Hip: twist more while keeping head and body as much to Man as possible during swivel.
Ochos has a lot more hip action than arm action. Keep arm as steady as possible, leaving it with Man.
Collect feet together in a T position and wait, Man could do a quick twist/squeeze to change direction to back ochos. In this case, Lady over twists in one direction and then switch to the other. Man can also do multiple twists. So wait and listen.
Bent knees for continuous ochos (often when Lady goes onto RF fwd), keep low, flex both knees. heel lead (not exaggerated) Heels together when swiveling. Feet always on floor, not lifted off floor.
Keep chest to partner as much as possible, show off twisting hips and less upper body movement.
When Lady's goes onto LF fwd swivel, when Man lifts and joins the lady with lift, it indicates finish. straighter knees, Lady can tap RF for embellishments
LF fwd ochos, relax R arm, bend elbow joint, so don't push Man.
Lead
At position 5 (cruzada), collect.
Change weight to left foot, lead follower to uncross without changing weight.
Step right, use both left and right hands to lead swivel.
Pull with left hand to lead follower's step forward.