The forward ocho is a basic figure of Argentine Tango, generally executed by the woman (or follower). However, it can also be executed by the man (or leader).
Its name comes from the figure that the feet draw on the floor. If we analyze the technique in detail and break it down, we realize that it is nothing more than the combination of two basic steps:
A pivot, feet together, of 180 degrees on one foot A step forward with the other These two steps are repeated, changing feet each time, which gives the sensation of drawing an eight on the floor.
Although it is generally taught starting from the woman’s cross on step 5 of the salida or base walk, it can actually be initiated at any time when the woman is in the zero position (on one foot and feet together).
The man’s lead consists of first pivoting the woman to place her in the direction in which we want to start the eight. For example, if we start from the cross, the eight will begin towards the right of the man, so we pivot the woman to face our right and then lead her to take a step forward. Once the woman has taken the step and brought her feet together, we repeat towards the other side.
The man has the option to take a side step, thus following the woman’s forward step, or to stay in place. However, in either case, he must continue to follow the woman with his torso, so as not to lose the connection.
To exit the eight, to finish the figure, once the man has performed the desired number of eights, he should pivot the woman only 90 degrees so that they are facing each other, keeping the woman slightly elevated to maintain the weight distribution, and then walk out with the free foot.
During the step in front of the woman, she can freely add embellishments to make the figure more visually appealing.
