The Turning Lock to Left is a figure that transitions from a right turning figure into a left-turning one. It consists of 4 steps taken in closed position to the counts "1 and 2, 3". It is the first step in the Waltz syllabus to use this unusual timing.

The unusual timing of the Turning Lock is a result of the unique placement of the crossing step. All lock step actions introduced previously in the Waltz syllabus place the "and" count -- and the crossing action -- on the third step, but on the Turning Lock they are done on the second step.

After a Spin Turn, a Closed Impetus or Outside Spin, the man is backing diagonal center with right foot free. He begins the turning lock by stepping back on the right foot with right side leading. He then crosses his right foot in front of his left foot. The last two steps are akin to steps 2-3 of the Outside Change: Right foot back, then left foot side & slightly forward, having turned 1/4 to left to end facing diagonal wall, preparing to step outside partner on the following step. The lady's part is the natural opposite.

Contrary to the name, the lock step itself does not turn. The moment the feet cross is, in fact, the mid-point between the right turn of the preceding figure and the left turn, which actually begins on the third step and continues through step four.

Like the Outside Change to PP, the Turning Lock to Left can also be turned to promenade position over the last two steps. The following promenade figure will move down line of dance. Figures to follow can include the Chasse from PP, Cross Hesitation and Wing, among others.