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Improving Balance – The Elusive Quality (A three part series)
As mentioned in the two previous issues, there are three main elements
necessary to develop excellent balance:
The First Element – “The Supporting Leg” (Part 1 of 3)
We refer to the constant awareness of the supporting leg which is necessary
for good body balance. It is the supporting leg that sustains the body upright.
The Second Element – “Vertical Alignment” (Part 2 of 3)
We refer to the vertical alignment of the three main body blocks:
-Knees
-Hips
-Shoulders
The vertical alignment will allow you to stay on your toes in perfect balance,
and master the rise and fall in dances like the Waltz and Foxtrot.
The Third Element – “Horizontal Alignment” (Part 3 of 3)
We refer to the horizontal alignment of the hip line as well as the shoulder line,
the key ingredient for turning and spinning in balance.
ALIGNMENT EXERCISE
(Please print this tip so you can try this exercise as you read)
Stand with your feet together and balance on your left foot. Let the arms hang
straight down on both sides of the body.
Keeping elbows in place, bring your arms forward as if carrying a tray.
(You can use an actual tray as a prop for this exercise if you like).
Slowly lift your right knee up in front of you as high as you can and point
the toes downward. Sustain that position for a moment, concentrating on
the supporting column (or left side) of the body.
Slowly lower your leg down and transfer your weight.
Slowly lift your left knee in front of you as high as you can and point the
toes downward. Sustain that position for a moment, concentrating on the
supporting column (or right side) of the body.
As before, slowly lower your leg down and transfer your weight.
Repeat several times, alternating legs.
ADVANCED TIPS
As you practice this exercise, relax the knees and lift the pelvis up by
shortening the stomach muscles and stretching the lower back.
Picture the hips as if they were on a pedestal – perfectly horizontal.
When you find the correct body position, you will notice that your body
is perfectly aligned, both vertically as well as horizontally. You will also
become very aware of the axis (or column) that supports your body.
Practice the three main elements of balance and you will enjoy a
tremendous control of your body. All of your movements will be more
dynamic, rhythmic, and graceful – on and off the dance floor.
Happy Dancing,
Blanche & Emilio
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Coming up: “TURNS AND SPINS” (A Five Part series)
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