Ah, the spot turn - easily one of my favourite movements in all of partner dancing. Last time, we took a look at the underarm turn as the informal ‘spot turn’. Now it’s time to look at the true spot turn; that is, a couple turning together around a common point. Don’t know what I mean? Check this out: Continue reading "Dance Turns 2: Leading / Following the Spot Turn"
Dance Turns: Leading and Following the Spot Turn
Turns are a huge part of any dance, and spot turns are probably the most common of the lot. So it’s amazing how few dancers know how to do it properly. As I’m sure you know, a poorly executed turn can lead to wrenched arms, loss of balance, or even a nasty fall. Here then, is a quick look at the basics for leading and following a smooth and comfortable spot turn. Continue reading "Dance Turns: Leading and Following the Spot Turn"
Learn Ballroom Dancing Faster – Part Two
Last time, we looked at our tendency to multi-task in our dance practice, with sub-par results. We also started to examine how to counter this habit, and focus on improving one technique at a time. Let’s continue with that today. Continue reading "Learn Ballroom Dancing Faster – Part Two"
How Often To Practice Your Dancing (And Do You Have to?)
If you’re dancing for fun, the answer to ‘how often should I practice my dancing?’ is really up to you. But say you’re not satisfied with that. Say you want to get the most out of your lessons and not risk lagging behind in class. For my private-lesson students, I always advise practicing between lessons, so when they come back they are more comfortable with the material and we can move on to more exciting steps and technique.
In this article, we look at the feasibility of practicing on a busy schedule, how long you should practice, and even how to practice more effectively. Continue reading "How Often To Practice Your Dancing (And Do You Have to?)"
Dance Turns, and How to Perfect Them
Knowing how to make good dance turns is absolutely essential for anyone looking to find more willing dance partners - ask almost any woman what they like most when dancing, and they'll say: "spinning!" After all, who doesn't love an exhilarating travel turn, or a back spot turn locked in your partners embrace?
Most dancers practice by whipping their body around repeatedly without thought to the process, finally rejoicing when they nail it after the 100th time. Sound familiar? The problem is, this doesn't teach consistency - you just got lucky, and reinforced some bad habits in the process. So, how can you raise your game? Continue reading "Dance Turns, and How to Perfect Them"