What is the 1st Rule of Ettiquete when learning how to Partner Dance?

This is one of my favorite topics to talk about as we embark on our dancing journey not only do we learn about dance but we also learn about ourselves. Many times during my lessons I need to give feedback to students about how to make the lessons more enjoyable for their dance partners of the moment or of their lives.  What are we talking about here?

We are talking about Forgiveness. Not correcting our partners when they are making mistakes is probably one of the hardest rules to learn when you are dancing. I see most often two scenarios:

Women/Followers tend to correct their male leads when something is not done right on the first or second try.

Men/Leaders tend to correct partners that are a different dance level than themselves.

In both instances I would encourage you to have a new approach:

Don’t Correct…Forgive. What could this look like:

1. Smile
2. Give encouraging comments
3. Seek instructors help or advice

We all learn at different paces and understanding is the key to creating positive results.

Written by Nina Perez director of Baila Vancouver Dance School. Expert Dance Instructor in Argentine Tango, Salsa, and all the latin social dances. For more information www.bailavancouver.com