Daily tip · Published November 2, 2026
Spotlight on the Basic with Hip Motion in Bachata
The Basic with Hip Motion is a key figure in the club style of Bachata. As a Beginner 1 move, it introduces dancers to the essential rhythms and fluidity characteristic of this lively dance. Focusing...
The Basic with Hip Motion is a key figure in the club style of Bachata. As a Beginner 1 move, it introduces dancers to the essential rhythms and fluidity characteristic of this lively dance. Focusing on hip motion adds a layer of expression that complements the basic step, enhancing the overall performance.
Practicing this figure helps build a strong foundation for further development in Bachata. Concentrated practice can improve connection with the music and partner, leading to a more enjoyable dance experience. Explore your local studios and find a place on Floorcraft to learn this engaging figure.
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: From open or closed hold, facing partner
The side basic danced with deliberate hip articulation: weight settles fully into each step so the free hip lifts, and the tap on 4 and 8 becomes a clear hip pop. Teaches the Cuban-style hip action central to bachata's look.
Man
8| Step | Count | Foot position | Footwork | Alignment | Turn | Lead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Left foot to side, settle weight to free the right hip up | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | Lead lady to her right |
| 2 | 2 | Right foot closes, hip continues | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 3 | 3 | Left foot small to side, settle | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 4 | 4 (tap) | Right foot taps, sharp hip pop up to right | Ball of foot | Facing partner | Nil | Accent hip |
| 5 | 5 | Right foot to side, settle weight to free the left hip up | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | Lead lady to her left |
| 6 | 6 | Left foot closes, hip continues | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 7 | 7 | Right foot small to side, settle | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 8 | 8 (tap) | Left foot taps, sharp hip pop up to left | Ball of foot | Facing partner | Nil | Accent hip |
Lady
8| Step | Count | Foot position | Footwork | Alignment | Turn | Lead |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | Right foot to side, settle weight to free the left hip up | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | Follow lead to own right |
| 2 | 2 | Left foot closes, hip continues | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 3 | 3 | Right foot small to side, settle | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 4 | 4 (tap) | Left foot taps, sharp hip pop up to left | Ball of foot | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 5 | 5 | Left foot to side, settle weight to free the right hip up | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | Follow lead to own left |
| 6 | 6 | Right foot closes, hip continues | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 7 | 7 | Left foot small to side, settle | Ball of foot, flat | Facing partner | Nil | – |
| 8 | 8 (tap) | Right foot taps, sharp hip pop up to right | Ball of foot | Facing partner | Nil | – |
Learn to dance
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