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Monterey Turn: How to Do the Step, Count and Common Mistakes

The Monterey Turn is a classic line dancing move that helps you transition smoothly from a beginner to an intermediate dancer. You will often see this step in line dancing routines, giving you a fun way to change directions on the dance floor. It involves pointing your foot to the side and spinning a half turn on your supporting leg.

Step card

Count
1, 2, 3, 4 (point, turn and close, point, close)
Level
Beginner to intermediate
Found in
Line Dancing
In short
Point to the side, turn a half turn on the supporting foot, point and close

The timing

step (weight change) touch, kick or sound hold

How to do it

  1. On count 1, point your right toe out to the right side without shifting your weight.
  2. On count 2, sweep your right foot in while making a half turn over your right shoulder on the ball of your left foot, then close your right foot next to your left with a weight change.
  3. On count 3, point your left toe out to the left side without putting weight on it.
  4. On count 4, step your left foot next to your right foot, closing the stance and shifting your weight back to your left side.

Tips

  • Keep your core engaged and your posture tall to maintain your balance during the spin.
  • Keep your weight firmly centered over your supporting leg when you execute the half turn.
  • Rise slightly onto the ball of your supporting foot to make the pivot smooth and easy.

Common mistakes

  • Stepping wide. Make sure you bring your feet completely together on the even counts to keep your center of gravity stable.
  • Turning too early. Wait until count two to start your pivot instead of twisting your body while you point on count one.
  • Flat footed spin. Keep your weight on the ball of your foot rather than your heel so you do not get stuck mid-turn.

Variations and practice

  • Stationary Point and Close: Practice the mechanics by pointing and closing without the half turn to master the weight changes.
  • Half Turn Practice: Focus on the standard half turn on count two once you have the balance down.

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.