Musicality and Creativity in Dance
Question: I feel stuck in my dancing with 123 567. I can tell that when you dance you’re breaking up the music in different ways, especially with footwork – even when you’re following turn patterns. How can a follower start to be creative this way...
17 Important Tips for Salsa Spins
Question: I was working on the drill you teach for spins that focuses on 1/4 turns, 1/2 turns, 3/4 turns, and then full turns. I seem to do okay with the 1/4 turns, but the 1/2 turns and above have me desperately seeking more balance. I cannot seem to find where...
What Is The Difference In Lead For Multiple Spins vs Single Turns?
Question: How do I know that my partner is about to lead me into a double/multiple spin as opposed to just a regular right turn? What signals am I looking for so that I can prep in time to get the spin? Answer: A good lead for an axis spin vs a right turn should help...
How Do You Spin in Heels?
Question: I normally dance in heels, but I’ve been practicing the drills in flat practice shoes. I just tried to do the spins in heels and nearly fell over. Just wondering if you had any pointers on spinning in heels, since I notice that you also practice in flats (on...
When Do You Pedal During Spins?
Question: When you do multiple spins during social dancing, you don’t seem to pedal at all on the 2 and 4. Why is that? Answer: When I started dancing I used to pedal to keep the rhythm and give myself the push I needed to do another spin. Once you develop control...
How Do You Generate Power For Spins?
Question: When you do 10 spins, how do you power yourself? How much is from the leader and how much comes from yourself? How many times do you have to pedal for 10 spins? Answer: The power for multiple spins comes from your preparation. I’m not talking...
“Shoulder Punching” During Spins – Right or Wrong?
Question: I tried the technique of shoulder punching; – would you recommend this for multiple spins? I seem to punch myself out of balance with this. It’s about powering oneself through punching the left arm across when one does a right spin. And the harder you...