Daily tip · Published October 27, 2026
Spotlight on Spanish Arms in Jive
The Spanish Arms is a captivating figure in the Latin dance style of Jive. This move adds flair and expressiveness to the dance, showcasing the vibrant energy of the performance.
The Spanish Arms is a captivating figure in the Latin dance style of Jive. This move adds flair and expressiveness to the dance, showcasing the vibrant energy of the performance.
Focused practice of the Spanish Arms can enhance body movement and control, contributing to a dancer's overall skill level. As dancers work through this figure, they can discover how to integrate it seamlessly into their routines. Explore the joy of Jive and learn the Spanish Arms at a studio found on Floorcraft.
The step chart
Here is how this figure is danced. Each row is one step, and the columns break down the feet, the timing and the movement. Switch between a step by step view and the full chart with the buttons above the chart.
Technique
Commence: Open Position, Double hand hold
From double hand hold the Lady turns left under the raised arms into Tandem Position in front of the Man, then unwinds with an underarm turn to the right back out to Open Position, both hands retained throughout.
Man
3| Step | Count | Foot position | Turn | Lead |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 | Quick Quick | 1.2 of Link LR | No turn | As 1.2 of Link |
| 3-5 | Quick a Quick | Left foot forward, very small step, to chasse LRL, to end Left foot side and slightly forward in Tandem Position, Lady in front, slightly to R side | 1/4 to right over 3-5 | Raise L hand and circle it anti-clockwise, R hand at Lady's waist level. Towards end of 5 give a slight pull with R hand and commence to circle L hand clockwise |
| 6-8 | Quick a Quick | Forward chasse RLR. End in Open Position with Double hand hold | 1/8 to right between 5 & 6 | Continue to circle L hand clockwise. Lower arm and lead Lady back at the end of her turn, retaining Double hand hold |
Lady
3| Step | Count | Foot position | Turn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 | Quick Quick | 1.2 of Link RL | No turn |
| 3-5 | Quick a Quick | Right foot forward to chasse RLR, turning underarm. End Right foot side and slightly back in Tandem Position in front of Man, slightly to his R side, then turn underarm to R on Right foot | 1/4 to left over 3-5, then 1/2 to right on Right foot |
| 6-8 | Quick a Quick | Left foot diag back to chasse LRL, to end Left foot back in Open Position with Double hand hold | 1/8 to right between 5 & 6 |
Notes
- When in Tandem Position on 5 the L arm is across the front of the body at waist level.
- An additional 1/8 turn to R may be made over 6-8.
- QaQ,QaQ Dbl Hand Hold in Open Position, Tandem, & Open Position with Spin Ending QQ,QaQ,QaQ same hold and positions, release R to L hold for spring *
Learn to dance
Find a studio on Floorcraft
Working through figures like this one is easier with a teacher. Find a dance studio near you on Floorcraft and book a first lesson.
This post was approved by the studio before it was published.