Beginner

Lead and Follow

Beginner Level

The foundation — what every new dancer needs to know

The art of suggesting movement to your partner through your body — not forcing, not hinting, but clearly proposing what comes next.

Beginner focus

Lead with your center of mass, not your arms. Arms are the postal service, your body is the sender.

Tips

  • If you had to use force, you didn't lead it

Common mistakes

  • Leading with arms instead of body
  • Leading too early
  • No space for the follower

Practice drill

Dance with only one hand contact. If you can lead direction changes and turns, your lead comes from your body.

Related terms