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Chaine Turns: How to Do the Step, Count and Common Mistakes

Ready to spin? Chaine turns, sometimes just called chaines, are quick, traveling turns on alternating feet that move you in a straight line. You will frequently see this intermediate move in ballet and jazz dance routines. They look beautifully continuous, like a chain of steps, and they add a fantastic burst of energy to your dance fitness workouts.

Step card

Count
and-1 per turn
Level
Intermediate
Found in
Jazz Dance, Ballet
In short
Quick turns on alternating feet traveling in a line

The timing

step (weight change) touch, kick or sound hold

How to do it

  1. Stand tall and prep by pointing your right foot out to the side.
  2. On the 'and' count, step your right foot out and open your arms, beginning to turn your body to the right.
  3. On count '1', step your left foot close to your right, completing one full rotation as you close your arms.
  4. On the next 'and' count, step your right foot out again to start the second turn.
  5. On count '2', bring your left foot in to finish the second spin.
  6. Continue this alternating pattern across the floor, staying on the balls of your feet.

Tips

  • Keep your core tight and your spine straight to maintain your balance as you spin.
  • Spot your turns by keeping your eyes fixed on a single point in front of you for as long as possible.
  • Stay high on the balls of your feet to make the weight transfers quick and smooth.

Common mistakes

  • Traveling off a straight line. Pick a focal point on the wall directly across the room and step directly toward it.
  • Taking steps that are too wide. Keep your feet close together during the turn to spin faster and maintain control.
  • Getting dizzy. Practice your spotting technique by snapping your head around quickly to find your focal point.

Variations and practice

  • Practice the footwork slowly without turning to get used to the tight, alternating steps.
  • Try them in a demi-plie position for a more grounded, jazz inspired look.
  • Add different arm stylings, like keeping your hands on your hips, to challenge your balance.

Related steps

When to check in with a doctor or physical therapist

  • Pain in a knee, ankle or hip that sharpens when you turn, pivot or land
  • Dizziness, chest discomfort or unusual shortness of breath
  • Pain that is still there the next day or keeps coming back after practice

General information, not medical advice. If you have a heart, joint or balance condition, are pregnant or are returning after an injury, check with your doctor or physical therapist before starting a new dance workout.

How this page was made. Step data (count, timing pattern, level, styles) compiled by the Rhythm Desk from common teaching practice; counts can differ between teachers. Text drafted with AI assistance and checked by the Rhythm Desk; see how we write. Last checked October 2026.