Tango

Caminar - To walk

Cruzada - Cross

Ochos Para Adelante' - Forward (figure) Eights

Ochos Para Atras - Back (figure) Eights

Composed of 8 positions, The Basic is a teaching figure, a reference point used to teach newer dancers.  Experienced Tango dancers may use pieces of the Basic, or simply Walk.

Note: Stepping backwards is unsafe on crowded dance floors, many experienced dancers will leave off the back step and step side to position 2.  Advanced dancers may simply walk forwards.

Practice hold (dance position), allows both partners to move and dance somewhat independently of each other.  This minimizes errors and frustration caused by your partner disturbing your balance and coordination, and saves toes..

Note: there is some tone through the arms, elbows still have a little flex to them, both partners should tighten their mid to upper back and tone the midsection.

The second figure I chose allows you to start and finish with parts of the Basic.  This allows a feeling of familiarity, so rather than learning a completely new step, we build on a known figure.

Note: The Leader stops in Position 4 allowing the Follower to continue to position 5.  Follower's Stay "Within" the mans open feet. Try not to get too far away.

The key to Argentine Tango is a beautiful controlled walk. Always strive to improve your walk.

Note: The walk may be done faster or slower, it's the control and feeling that are most important. Keep your body weight balanced within yourself and match the energy of your partner.

The 4th figure selected is the Back Ocho, this figure introduces the cross system.

The Cross System means that both the Leader and Follower step with the same foot, for example Left and Left. Adding a slight rotation to the Follower's direction of movement give the appearance to some people as the couple being on "Cross" feet.

The Mirror image to La Cruzada (the Cross).

This Figure can be part of a combination of Cruzada, Tijeras, Cruzada, and can be very musical.

Note: This can be a very subtle lead from the Man, using just his body position and angling the Lady's movements to create the cross.  It's not wrong to make leg contact but it should be smoothly done.

La Parada is a stopping or checking action, the Gentleman touches the Lady's foot with a "stay here" suggestion, he can then advance his movement around or past her.

Note: Slide the foot on the floor, avoid moving your leading foot up and then down on top of your partner's toes...

When you commence a pattern or group of patterns, we can say we start with the "Entrance"

This Video gives some information on the types of beginnings or Entrances you can choose from

Note: In all cases, use good posture, have a feeling of connection and balance with your partner and soften the knees before commencing the movement.