Intermediate
Frame
Intermediate Level
Going deeper — techniques and nuances for experienced dancers
The shape your arms and torso create to communicate with your partner — your body's antenna for sending and receiving movement.
Intermediate focus
Start feeling the difference between a 'loud' frame (for big movements like turns) and a 'quiet' frame (for body movement and sensual work). Your frame should breathe with the music.
Tips
- •Practice in front of a mirror: your elbows should stay roughly in front of your hip bones
- •Test your frame by having someone push your hand — if your whole body moves as one unit, your frame is connected
Common mistakes
- •Locking elbows straight — kills all sensitivity
- •Spaghetti arms — no signal gets through
- •Death grip on partner's hand
- •Frame that doesn't adapt to the music's energy
Practice drill
Stand in closed position with a partner. Close your eyes. Have them step in any direction and follow only through frame. If you can follow 8 out of 10, your frame works.