We want everyone to have fun and be safe at our dance classes. To reduce the chances of injury we have Skills Checks to help check dancers are ready for the next level up and to promote a safe environment.
- Once you feel you would like the greater challenge of a higher class then please ask for a Skills Check.
- A Teacher or Skills Coach can pass a dancer as being ready for the next level. Taxi dancers can help with any basic tips.
- We're here to help, ask for an assessment before you're ready to move up. During the course of a song in freestyle we can give you some pointers and offer feedback on areas for you to work on.
A Mini Private Lesson
The Skills Check is like a private lesson during freestyle, benefits include:
- Personal coaching
- Extra technique and style tips
- Expert advice
- Free credit once you pass
Below are a few skills you need to have before you move up so that you and your partners get the most from an intermediate level class.
Timing
- Everyone
- Stepping to the beat of the music.
Safety
- Everyone
- Your dancing is safe and you don't endanger your partner.
Handhold
- Leaders
- Correct and comfortable hand hold (not gripping with thumbs).
- Hand hold is steady (not bouncing).
- Followers
- Don't grip your partner (no thumbs used).
- Maintain connection - pressing in to match the tension of the lead.
Footwork
- Everyone
- Bring your feet together at the end of the slot/on the step out.
- Take small steps.
- Leaders
- Use a walking step & start on right foot.
- Followers
- Use a walking step & start on left foot.
Frame
- Everyone
- Body upright with a bend in your arms.
- Leaders
- Lead with your body (not just your arms).
- Maintain frame, e.g. throughout the Manhattan.
- Followers
- Protect your shoulders from injury by not letting your arms go behind you.
- Slight tension in the shoulders to hold your frame.
Movement
- Leaders
- Adjust your lead to your partner.
- Body faces partner at the end of a move.
- Able to dance on a 'slot'.
- Followers
- Can complete a return on the spot.
- Body faces partner at the end of a move.
- Able to dance on a 'slot'.
- Does not anticipate lead.
Move knowledge
- Leaders
- Can lead all the beginner moves clearly.
- Followers
- Can follow all the beginner moves.
