Learn how to beautifully dance
the Reverse Pivot
The Reverse Pivot is a foundational bronze-level figure in Quickstep, prized for its sharp directional change and dynamic flow across the floor. It transforms momentum into a controlled rotation, creating a seamless transition between sequences while maintaining the dance’s buoyant character. Like a compass needle finding true north, it elegantly reorients partners without breaking their connection.
The Reverse Pivot is usually a bronze-level Quickstep figure. For the full list of Quickstep figures corresponding to each medal level, as per the book “Ballroom Technique” or Imperial Society for Teachers of Dancing (ISTD), see the Figure List for Quickstep.
Reverse Pivot (Man)
Commence in Closed Position,
| # | Count | Alignment | Steps | Footwork | Turn | Rise & Fall | CBM | Sway | Moving | Position |
| 1 | S | com to turn | com to rise e/o 1 |
Count “Slow” or “&”:
Right foot steps back in contra body movement position, with a small stride and toe turned inward, aligning from backing line of dance to diagonally center after a half-turn left. Maintain contra body movement throughout the pivot, allowing the left foot to hover in contra body movement position as the body rotates smoothly. Rise gently onto the toe with minimal height, ensuring the heel lowers only after completing the turn. Keep the frame expansive and upper body quiet, focusing rotation through the hips and ankles.
Head remains naturally poised to the left, with a light but consistent connection through the right side of the frame, guiding the lady’s forward step. Body flight flows diagonally center, with shoulders level and no sway, preserving a unified axis with the partner. Ensure your right leg accepts the lady’s step between your feet by creating space through controlled hip rotation.
Reverse Pivot (Lady)
Commence in Closed Position,
| # | Count | Alignment | Steps | Footwork | Turn | Rise & Fall | CBM | Sway | Moving | Position |
| 1 | S | T | com to turn | com to rise e/o 1 |
Count “Slow” or “&”:
Left foot steps forward in contra body movement position, toe turned slightly outward, placing it firmly between the man’s feet as the body pivots a half-turn left from facing line of dance to backing line of dance. Rise through the toe with subtle elevation, using contra body movement to initiate the turn while keeping hips aligned under the shoulders. Avoid collapsing the frame or leaning into the man; instead, sustain volume through extended left arm and engaged back muscles.
Head turns sharply left with elegance, eyes directed over the left shoulder, while the body maintains neutral sway and flows diagonally center. Connection remains centered through the man’s right side, with the left side of the rib cage leading forward to preserve harmonious body lines. Focus on tracking the man’s right leg with your left leg, stepping straight forward without veering sideways.
General Notes
Core Points
- Contra body movement position is essential: It enables the rotation and prevents partners from colliding.
- Modest step size: Small steps maintain balance during the pivot and avoid over-rotation.
- Toe-heel footwork: Ensures controlled rise and smooth weight transfer.
- Diagonal center alignment: Facilitates natural progression into subsequent figures.
Advanced Elements
- Frame stability: An expanded frame prevents “chasing” the turn and enhances lead clarity.
- Head sharpness (lady): Accentuates the pivot’s sharpness and adds dramatic flair.
- Thigh connection awareness: Prevents encroachment and maintains clean body lines.
“A hummingbird reversing flight in mid-air.“
Following Figures
Ready to move DC
| Bronze | |
| Silver | |
| Gold |
List of Abbreviations
| Steps | RF: Right foot LF: Left foot fwd: forward diag: diagonally CBMP: Contra Body Movement Position |
| Footwork | T: Toe H: Heel F: Flat |
| Turn | L: Left R: Right cont: continue com: commence |
| Alignment & Moving | LOD: Line of Dance DC: Diagonal Centre DW: Diagonal Wall |
| Rise & Fall | NFR: no foot rise com: commence cont: continue e/o: end of |
| Position | OP: outside Partner PP: Promenade Position CPP: Counter Promenade Position PO: Partner outside |
| Sway | L: Left R: Right F: Forward |
For a more detailed explanation of terms and abbreviations, see the Glossary.
Demonstrations
These 3rd party (external) demonstration videos typically show the Turning Lock to Right being performed from different angles, perspectives and speeds. However, they generally have little or no commentary or explanation.
For videos that also include commentary and tips that are aimed at assisting you perform the figure properly, see the next section “Tutorials”.