Rueda Move: El Setenta (70)

A Classic Move in Cuban Rueda de Casino

If you spend enough time dancing Cuban salsa or Rueda de Casino, sooner or later you will encounter one of the most iconic moves in the repertoire: El Setenta.For many dancers, El Setenta is a milestone. It’s one of those moves that, once you learn it, opens the door to a whole family of more advanced figures. It combines flow, rotation, and coordination in a way that perfectly reflects the playful and dynamic nature of Cuban salsa.

Why is it called “Setenta”?

In Spanish, setenta means seventy. Like many rueda figures, the name originally came from the teaching systems used in Cuban dance schools, where moves were numbered and catalogued. Over time, the name stuck, and today dancers all over the world simply call it El Setenta.

What makes El Setenta special?

El Setenta is loved because it combines several elements that are central to Cuban casino style:

• Circular movement

• Leader and follower rotations

• A sense of playful complexity

• Strong connection between partners

Unlike simpler figures, El Setenta has a distinctive visual rhythm that makes it stand out on the dance floor.

The Structure of the Move

Without going too deep into technical detail, El Setenta typically includes:

1. A preparation from Guapea

2. The leader guiding the follower through a wrapping motion that creates a brief hammer-lock position

3. A smooth unwind and two "enchufla" turns, that return the couple to an open position

The beauty of the move is in the flow of energy. When led well, it feels natural and continuous rather than complicated.

El Setenta in Rueda

In Rueda de Casino, El Setenta adds excitement and visual flair to the circle. Because every couple performs the move at the same time, it creates a beautiful moment of synchronised motion.

It’s also the foundation for many variations, such as:

• Setenta y Dos

• Setenta Complicado

• Setenta y Tres

• Setenta con Túnel

Once you understand the core mechanics of El Setenta, learning these variations becomes much easier.

Dancing It Well

Like many casino figures, El Setenta works best when dancers focus on:

• Timing with the music

• Clear leading and responsive following

• Relaxed arms and smooth transitions

The goal isn’t just to execute the pattern, but to maintain the rhythm and connection with your partner.

A Move That Connects Tradition and Creativity

El Setenta is more than just a step. It represents the playful creativity of Cuban dance culture, where movements evolve, combine, and inspire new variations.

Whether you are dancing socially or in a lively rueda circle, El Setenta remains one of the moves that brings energy, style, and joy to the dance floor.

So next time you hear the caller shout “Setenta!”, smile, embrace the flow, and enjoy one of the classic gems of Cuban Rueda de Casino.

Check out the actual move with JR and Ariana performing a Setenta through this link