If you’re learning how to dance Two-Step in Orlando, there’s no getting around it—you’re going to be turning. A lot. Whether you’re spinning down the dance floor at Cowboys, trying out new combos at a local dance hall, or just learning the basics in class, knowing how to turn well is a must. That’s where this video comes in.
In this in-depth guide, Anthony and Rose from Country Dance Orlando walk you through 12 essential tips for mastering Two-Step turns. From the different types of turns, to timing, spotting, connection, and practice strategies, this video covers everything dancers need to turn better, feel more balanced, and dance with confidence on the floor.
They start with the reality check most people need to hear—turns take practice. You’re not going to be perfect right away, and that’s okay. With time, muscle memory, and the right technique, anyone can become great at turning. The first few tips focus on mindset, being deliberate, and learning the difference between pivot turns, shanae turns, and spirals—each used for a different purpose depending on the direction, partnership, and style of movement.
Next, Anthony and Rose dive into turn mechanics, including how many degrees of rotation followers should expect. (Spoiler: assume 1.5 turns unless told otherwise!). This helps avoid over- or under-rotating—something that throws off balance and timing fast. You’ll also learn why timing matters, why leaders shouldn’t rush just to “do more,” and how clean, well-timed turns are way more impressive than a rapid-fire mess.
Another major point they emphasize is connection—not just holding hands, but truly communicating through touch. Anthony explains the “pistol grip” technique that allows leaders to guide without pulling, squeezing, or creating tension, while Rose offers tips for followers to stay aware and responsive throughout the turn.
From there, they move into topics like prepping for a turn, understanding the “halo” (the imaginary circle a follower turns within), and breaking a full turn into four quadrants. This quadrant technique helps leaders guide turns more clearly and gives followers space to finish turns with balance instead of being yanked through them.
They also cover spotting—how and where to look during turns so you stay upright, balanced, and moving in a straight line. One big takeaway? Don’t spot on your partner (they move too much). Instead, spot in the direction you’re traveling, which is especially helpful on a crowded Orlando dance floor.
Finally, tip #12 is simple but powerful: Practice. A lot. Turning well is like building muscle—you won’t get strong without repetition. Anthony and Rose encourage dancers to pick one thing at a time, focus on that, and repeat it until it becomes second nature.
This video is an incredible resource whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced dancer looking to improve. And if you’re ready to take what you’ve learned to the dance floor, Country Dance Orlando offers in-person group classes and private lessons for Two-Step and more—right here in Central Florida. Come learn from Anthony and Rose and build confidence in your turns with personalized, friendly instruction.