Posture
Intermediate Level
Going deeper — techniques and nuances for experienced dancers
Posture is the silent announcement of whether you know what you're doing — before you take a single step.
Intermediate focus
Your posture should now be dynamic, not static. During body waves, your spine articulates segment by segment while maintaining its overall alignment. During turns, your core holds your center while your limbs move freely around it. Start noticing how posture changes with each figure — a cambre requires controlled extension, a wrap requires compact posture. The spine is always organized, never abandoned.
Tips
- •Film yourself dancing from the side. Most people think their posture is better than it actually is — video doesn't lie.
- •Practice the 'wall test': stand with your back against a wall, slight natural curve in the lower back, then step away and try to keep that alignment while doing your basic step.
Common mistakes
- •Locking the knees — this kills your ability to absorb rhythm and makes you look stiff
- •Lifting the shoulders toward the ears, especially during turns or when nervous
- •Leaning backward from the waist, which disconnects you from your partner and strains your lower back
Practice drill
Dance one full song focused entirely on posture. No figures, no styling — just the basic step with the best posture you can maintain. Every time you catch yourself collapsing, reset. By the end of the song, your body starts to memorize what 'correct' feels like.