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The most important part of social dancing is knowing your job
and sticking to it. Below is a copy of the handout we provide during our Leading
& Following 101 lesson. Following these guidelines will make your learning and
practicing time an enjoyable experience for both you and you partner.
(adapted from The
Swing Book by Degen Pener)
Social Dance Tips for Couples:
Dance with your partner, not at them.
It’s ok to mess up. Just regroup & start again.
Don’t assign blame and never correct your partner in the middle of the dance floor.
Do your job, not your partner’s.
Stand up straight and carry your own weight.
Maintain eye contact and smile at each other.
Always remember: DANCING IS FUN!
Social Dance Tips for Guys:
Reach out and touch your partner
– If you are afraid to touch her, you cannot lead her properly.
Think ahead – You must know
which move you are going to do before you do it.
Communicate with confidence –
Be strong and consistent in your lead. A wishy-washy lead is impossible to follow.
Be alert – Your partner is
putting herself in your hands so make sure she is safe on the dance floor. Watch
where you are going!
Make it a thrill – Your job is
to make your partner shine. Treat her like the queen she is!
Social Dance Tips for Gals:
Follow, follow, follow! Don’t
lead – No matter how tempting it is, it is not your job to lead.
Listen, don’t anticipate
– Let your partner tell you what to do and when to do it. Don’t try to
guess his next move.
Don’t be a backseat driver
– It’s just as distracting on the dance floor as it is in the car.
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Be patient
with your partner. As the leader, he has to do more thinking on his feet than you
do.
Provide a good frame – No
matter how good the lead is, you won’t receive it if you have spaghetti-arms.
Enjoy the ride – Put yourself
completely in your partner’s hands and trust his lead. Relax and enjoy yourself!
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