The Dangers of the Back Step in a Crowded Milonga

In a crowded Milonga, it’s dangerous for the leader to step backwards against the line of dance. There are several ways to handle this danger. One is for the follower to be especially alert when the leader is doing a back step and wait and resist the back step if that might cause a collision. Following is not a passive activity and if you see that the leader is about to back into someone or something you should resist.

Another solution is to do away with the Back Step in the Salida when against the line of dance. The leader can simply start with their weight on the right foot instead of the left and take a sideways step with their left foot (normally step 2 not step 1).

Another way to handle the Back Step is to begin with the man facing back along the line of dance. This way the Back Step moves the two of you along the line of dance, which is usually safer than moving against the line of dance.  It also helps the leader see the other couples coming