Being a good ballroom dancing partner requires learning how to follow the leader with grace.
There’s something undeniably dazzling and elegant about ballroom dancing. No doubt, these are reasons that contributed to your decision to pursue lessons with Quick Quick Slow. But now that you know the steps it’s time to make the most of your newfound passion and transform yourself into a veritable Ginger Rogers. How is it that Ms. Rogers became one of the most well-known figures in the world of dance? Why, she took the lead from Fred Astaire, of course! As important as it is to carry yourself with grace and know the steps, it's equally important to follow your partner so that your combined technique appears flawless. Here are a few tips on how to follow the leader with style.
1. Read Your Partner
Trust is key in ballroom dancing and by forming a relationship with your partner you will find that a form of nonverbal communication will develop. Read your partner's intentions based on how they move from one step to another and the facial cues they might give you. This takes work, but the sooner you begin noticing how your partner behaves as he leads, the stronger your bond will become.
2. Feel the Connection
You and your partner should be connected throughout the entirety of your dance. This is a major component of your communication on the dance floor. It requires you to feel and interpret the pressure your partner provides, learning when to respond to the push and pull of the movement. Feeling your partner’s muscle engagement will cue you exactly where to follow.
3. Don't Try to Correct or Anticipate
It may be hard for a take-charge kind of girl who has perfected every step to follow another’s lead, but this is very important. Don’t try to lead. Your partner is in charge of where you are going and at what time, so don’t try to get there first. Your movements should complement those of your partner; resisting will hinder your combined ability to appear graceful. Just enjoy the ride.
4. Practice, Practice, Practice
Nobody becomes a pro overnight so work together with your partner over and over to create a seamless dynamic that will leave other couples gaping in envy.
Want more tips? Contact us to further your journey into the world of ballroom dancing.