Tango Ochos: Forward and Backward Ocho Techniques

Ocho - "eight" in Spanish - is one of tango's most elegant and iconic figures. This movement, which looks like the follower drawing the number eight on the floor, is one of tango's fundamental building blocks.

What Is an Ocho?

Anatomy of Ochos

Every ocho consists of:

1. Step - Forward or backward
2. Collection - Feet coming together
3. Pivot - Turn
4. Projection - Preparation for next step

Types of Ochos

1. Forward Ocho (Ocho Adelante)

The follower pivots while stepping forward.

Follower Technique:

1. Feel the lead
2. Step forward
3. Collect your feet
4. Pivot (180°)
5. Step forward in new direction

Leader Technique:

1. Direct with your chest
2. Wait for follower's pivot
3. Continuously change direction
4. Control the rhythm

2. Backward Ocho (Ocho Atras)

The follower pivots while stepping backward.

Follower Technique:

1. Feel the lead
2. Step backward
3. Collect your feet
4. Pivot
5. Step backward in new direction

Leader Technique:

1. Draw back with chest
2. Leave space for pivot
3. Watch for collisions
4. Gentle lead

3. Ocho Cortado

Cut ocho. The pivot is interrupted.

Characteristics:

• Faster
• More rhythmic
• Popular in milonguero style
• Requires small space

Comparison

Pivot Mechanics

What Is a Pivot?

For a Good Pivot

Physical Requirements:

• Strong core
• Flexible hips
• Good balance
• Proper shoes

Technical Requirements:

• On one foot
• Sole on floor
• Knee slightly bent
• Hip free

Pivot Directions

1. Inward pivot - Toward standing foot
2. Outward pivot - Away from standing foot

Pivot Mistakes

Forward Ocho in Detail

Step by Step

Starting Position:

• Partners in abrazo
• Weight on one foot
• Ready position

Phase 1 - Lead:

• Leader turns chest
• Follower feels direction
• Energy transfers

Phase 2 - Step:

• Follower steps forward
• Leg extends first
• Body follows

Phase 3 - Collection:

• Free foot collects
• Weight fully transferred
• Balance achieved

Phase 4 - Pivot:

• Torso turns
• Foot turns on floor
• Hip is free

Phase 5 - Projection:

• Preparation for new direction
• Energy for next step
• Cycle continues

Backward Ocho in Detail

Follower Perspective

Backward ocho is harder because:

• You can't see behind
• More dependent on lead
• Balance is more critical

Critical Points:

1. Wait for the lead, don't anticipate
2. Keep your axis
3. Don't rush
4. Trust your partner

Leader Perspective

Things to Watch:

1. Gentle but clear lead
2. Give follower time
3. Control the floor
4. Avoid collisions

Ocho Exercises

Solo Exercises

Exercise 1: Pivot Practice

1. Stand on one foot
2. Turn 360°
3. Maintain balance
4. Repeat on other foot

Exercise 2: Figure Eight Drawing

1. Mark a figure 8 on floor
2. Walk through it
3. Add pivots
4. Increase speed gradually

Exercise 3: Mirror Work

1. Practice in front of mirror
2. Check your axis
3. Watch your posture
4. Refine technique

Partner Exercises

Exercise 4: Slow Ochos

1. Very slow tempo
2. Feel each phase
3. Maximum connection
4. No rushing

Exercise 5: Continuous Ochos

1. Link multiple ochos
2. Maintain flow
3. Practice both directions
4. Build endurance

Conclusion

Ochos are the poetry of tango—elegant, expressive, and endlessly variable. Master the pivot, maintain your axis, and let the music guide you. Your ochos will become a beautiful conversation with your partner.

Related Articles:

• Tango Guide
• Tango Giros: Turn Techniques
• Tango Caminata: Walking Techniques