A SPIN is a turn ON one foot where the body (essentially) remains still relative to itself. In one sense, it is exactly the opposite of turn Between, in that all of the rotation occurs in the foot and none in the body.
A SWIVEL is a turn ON one foot AND the position of the body relative to itself is altered. This always results in a change of position relative to partner, i.e., you transition from one dance position to another dance position.
Unfortunately, the standard technique as described in the ISTD manual does not distinguish between spin and swivel as fundamental techniques. Nor does it consistently describe rotations which occur on a foot as being turn ON.
Take for example the specification of the Amount of Turn for the Natural Spin Turn for steps 4-6 for the man:
1/2 to R on 4 (Pivot)
Continue to turn
3/8 between 5 and 6
There are several problems with this description of turn.
First of all, it is impossible to be in Closed Dance Position and for the leader to take a back step, the follower to take a forward step between the leader’s feet and then have the leader turn ON his left foot 1/2 a turn and remain in Closed Dance Position.
Second, the phrase “continue to turn” is ambiguous and does not provide sufficient information for the reader to know what to do.
A more correct description of the amount of turn would be:
3/8 to R on 4 (Pivot)
1/8 to R between 4 and 5
3/8 between 5 and 6
Of course, then we would also need to provide more detailed Alignments so that the specifications of Alignment would be consistent with those given for the turn.
It is unlikely that the ISTD is going to be updating their manual any time soon to address these deficiencies. So, over time I will try to provide more detailed descriptions of the figures that are lacking in clarity and provide links to the updated descriptions here.
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