The Secrets of Excellent Followers
Great following is not passive. You’re 50% of the dance—and there is plenty to master before you ever worry about what move comes next.
When you first start partner dancing as a follower, it can feel like the leader has all the jobs.
They choose the moves. They decide where you’re going. They’re learning how to lead you.
And you just… let them?
Not quite.
Especially in the early levels, there’s plenty for you to work on that has nothing to do with knowing what move comes next.
Great following starts with mastering your own body:
Pay attention to your footwork and weight transfer: Are you actually shifting your weight with every step?
Work on posture and alignment: Engage your core, keep your weight forward rather than sinking back onto your heels, and notice what happens to your balance.
Hold your frame: This gives your leader the resistance and feedback they need to guide you.
Follow what you feel: Your job isn’t to anticipate the move or help your partner execute it. Wait for the lead, then respond to the information you’re actually getting.
That last one can be surprisingly difficult.
Sometimes you know exactly what the movement is supposed to be. Sometimes you know your partner is off time. Sometimes you’re pretty sure you could “help.”
If a leader doesn’t cue you, don’t do the move. That is helpful to the leader. It gives them information they can use to improve their technique.
Partner dancing is a conversation. And the more you think about it, the better the metaphor gets.
There are so many ways to show that you’re listening:
Leaders have a lot to juggle. A follower who is patient, responsive and enthusiastic can add so much joy to the experience.
Put it into practice.
Build your footwork, posture, connection and responsiveness in class at San Tropez.
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