Turns in Argentine Tango

There are Eight Turns in Argentine Tango that are commonly used. These eight common turns are, in order of use and popularity: 1.) The Follower’s Molinete (Lead’s Giro) in open and close embrace. 2.) Milonguero Turn. 3.) Rock Step. 4.) Ocho Cortado. 5.) Calesitas. 6.) Media Luna Turns. 7.) Colgada Turns and single axis turns 8.) Anti-Molinete.

The concept of the Molinete (or giro) is that the follower performs a sequence around the leader with the following combination: side step – back step – side step – forward step – side step – back step – side step – etc. 

The Milonguero Turn consists of only three steps for the follower: A back cross, a side step, and then a forward cross. 

In the Rock Step, the leader rocks forward on their left leg, then rocks back at the same time turning or pivoting 90 degrees to the left.

The Ocho Cortado begins with the leader cutting short a regular Forward Ocho and instead returning the follower to the cross position. 

In the Calesita, one of of the partners (the person receiving the Calesita) will stay in the center, while the other (the person walking the Calesita) will walk around the other. 

When a half-molinete (medio giro) is danced and the direction is reversed at the end, usually with a front ocho, it is typically called a Media Luna (half moon).

Colgada are fast turns which takes the woman off her axis or plays with her axis.

Finally, there is the Anti-Molinete.