Yes, use all of them. Well unless you are a spider that has learned to surf the web, we are probably talking about just two legs. So why do we need to think of using every leg?
When we are dancing we must remember that every time we change weight, we need to be active through the standing or weighted leg. We need to activate the leg we are standing on to either push or pull our bodies to the next step.
In our first dance lessons we focus mainly on where we place the feet, we learn the patterns. While the patterns are important, the power source or generation of each step is far more important. We need to be interested in where we are rather than where we are going, a little like life.
In every dance, the relationship with the floor is of utmost importance. We are always using pressure into the floor with the free foot and always impulsing into the floor with the standing leg. This impulse is an activity of the leg, either using the leg to push you to the next position or to pull your legs together.
Waltz provides us with a good example of how we can be more active through our legs. Most dancers are active with their standing leg when they lower to take their first step. The lowering provides the reminder to activate the leg. However we are not done, we must push to our second and pull to our third step. Sound complicated? Just remember, use every leg.
Silly as it may sound, if in every dance you do, you think about actively using every leg, you might be surprised at the results. When we are active on every step we are better at lead and follow, the partner is able to feel more about where you are going. You will find better balance and therefore better timing. It is also a more athletic experience, making our dancing much better exercise.
So next time you dance, try thinking of every leg, whether it be Cha Cha, Foxtrot or Two Step, and be thankful we only have two to worry about.
Lawrence is a teacher at Dance Station. If you would like to take lessons with Lawrence or any of our teachers, call 505-989-9788.
Lawrence, thanks for the tips. Its great.
Pinky
Ballroom Dance Teacher