Leading right turn into hammerlock smoothly

[blueguitar322]

Sorry for another beginner's question...at least I'm not shy about asking!

We're learning a few combinations that begin with a exibe/right turn into a hammerlock and I've picked up a few tips about leading it, but I don't think I'm anywhere close to being smooth with it. It doesn't seem like the most natural arm movement for the lady, so I really want to work on my lead and get it smooth and comfortable.

I was told that slightly turning my right hand (as if to look down at a watch) before going into the turn is one way to make it smoother. And also that it helps for the lead (me) to end up positioned slightly to the left of the follow. Anthony at addicted2salsa.com had a tip once about imagining a "rubber band effect" so that the turn gradually slows and doesn't snap to a stop. Any other tips here?

I'm also a bit unsure of good ways to maintain the necessary tension to lead follow-up moves from a hammerlock. I noticed this in particular last night; thankfully all the moves went hammerlock --> reverse inside turn so it wasn't an issue, but this won't always be the case. I'd like to find a way to lead remaining moves that is clear, but gentle.

 

[Pierre]

Assuming your hands are right-to-left/left-to-right, lead a normal right-hand turn using your left hand as the primary lead. With your right hand, straighten your partner's left arm so it is completely verticle by her side. As she completes the turn, the left arm will naturally fold up into the hammerlock.

When learning the move, most leaders think they have to put the ladies' arm into the hammerlock position which makes it very uncomfortable for her. If you allow the natural body mechanics/motion to do the work for you it becomes a lot smoother and easier.

 

[theamoebaman]

Yep. I've found that the smoothest way is to just lower the girls left arm so that it's straight while you turn her with her right. That way the shoulder naturally rotates to allow the arm to bend behind the girl's back.