| Social dancing is a sport whose players come in all | | | | go, if something doesn't work the first time, you |
| shapes and sizes, not to mention different levels of | | | | might try it again, but do not waste the entire dance |
| ability, experience and technique. Even if both | | | | focusing on just that one move. By the end of the |
| partners are experienced dancers, the first few | | | | dance, you will each have a better perspective of |
| phrases of a song can clearly define the success and | | | | the other person's ability and of the way you dance |
| enjoyment of that particular dance. Consideration to | | | | with each other so that the next time you dance |
| both leader and follower needs to be implemented in | | | | you can pick up where you left off and you will |
| order to become familiar with each other. | | | | know just what to expect. Even if you have |
| It is wise to start slow, with just a few basic steps | | | | previously danced with someone, it is a good idea to |
| and underarm turns to "test the waters", to become | | | | dance a starter step or two, just to get in sync with |
| comfortable and familiar with each other. Once you | | | | the music and your partner. |
| have established your connection you can then | | | | While it is proper etiquette to dance to the level of |
| continue to explore each others abilities. Of course | | | | your partner, I am not saying that you should never |
| leaders, you are in control, so it is up to you to | | | | try out that new dance move that you have been |
| establish the connection and to allow you and your | | | | working on. That is part of the fun and enjoyment |
| partner the time get to know each other. | | | | of dancing. What I am saying is to be sure that you |
| It can be very difficult to enjoy a dance if one | | | | are both dancing the same dance, to the same music |
| person out dances the other. Do not walk onto the | | | | at the same time before throwing all caution to the |
| dance floor and start leading your partner through | | | | wind! Taking just a little bit of time during the first |
| one difficult move or pattern after another, without | | | | few steps of your dance, to familiarize yourselves |
| first establishing a clear connection and becoming | | | | with each other can mean the difference of a |
| familiar with one another. If you do this, you will likely | | | | beautifully executed dance or a complete train wreck. |
| become frustrated and your partner will be confused. | | | | Take your time and enjoy! |
| Start slow and build, trying new dance moves as you | | | | |