Stepping into intermediate tango means refining your technique while adding more dynamic movements to your repertoire. Whether you dance salón, milonguero, or nuevo, mastering these five essential moves will elevate your connection, musicality, and floorcraft.
1. The Sacada (Displacement)
Why it matters: This elegant move involves one partner "replacing" the other's space, creating seamless transitions between steps. Perfect for crowded milongas when executed with control.
- Leader: Initiate with a smooth weight transfer, not a push
- Follower: Maintain axis during the displacement
- Pro tip: Practice with slow vals music to refine timing
2. Planeo (Pivot Slide)
Why it matters: A dramatic pivot-and-slide that showcases balance and connection. Often used in cortes or as a musical accent.
- Leader: Freeze your upper body while leading the pivot
- Follower: Keep your free leg extended but relaxed
- Pro tip: Works beautifully with Pugliese's dramatic pauses
3. Barrida (The Sweep)
Why it matters: This intimate move involves gently "sweeping" your partner's foot across the floor—great for playing with dynamics in close embrace.
- Leader: Use your calf, not your foot, to guide
- Follower: Yield pressure but don't lift your foot
- Pro tip: Combine with a parada for advanced variations
4. Volcada (The Drop)
Why it matters: A controlled off-axis lean that builds trust and body awareness. The hallmark of fluid milonguero style.
- Leader: Support with your core, not just arms
- Follower: Imagine melting into the movement
- Pro tip: Practice first against a wall for muscle memory
5. Gancho (The Hook)
Why it matters: This playful leg wrap adds spice when used sparingly. Best for nuevo or open-embrace social dancing.
- Leader: Create space with your torso before leading
- Follower: Let the movement originate from your hip
- Pro tip: Save for rhythmic accents in D'Arienzo tracks
