Quote:
Originally posted by alex
Too many modern jive dancers seem to think ther only way to dance is to make everything (steps, leads, movements etc) as big as possible all the time. I think this is influenced by the teachers - they tend to demonstrate everything being 'big' to make sure the people at the back of the class can see.
We also get used to being crowded at either side, because we always learn in long lines. But at the same time we expect there to be room behind us, because the lines are not that close together.
So when you get a room full of beginners and intermediate dancers, they dance big and never look over their shoulder! It does make everything a bit too phyisical.
If you are on a crowded dance floor, just try shortening your arm (by bending your elbow - surgery is a bit too drastic). Keep it bent throughout the dance - never go to full extension. You will still be able to do every step you want, and should now have enough room to dance. It has other benefits - it looks better, makes it easier to lead, and it gives you another option when you hit a break.
Alex |
Agreed. To add to the above, dancing smaller (ie with a bent elbow) will help you dance to faster records as you will have less distance to cover between beats.
Dancing big, can be very effective when the tempo is slower and you can take more time and more steps to complete the move with style.
Remember however that if you are trying to keep your elbow bent at all time, you must remember to keep the tension in the tip of your fingers (rather than in the arm / elbow / shoulder), this will give a much more natural look and feel to your dancing.
Franck.