Dimension: Directions - Theme: Giros with moving axis

In this class, we saw a very elegant giro with walking axis, e.g. a giro where the leader is moving too. This giro started with a traditional entrada to the ocho and ended with a nice grapevine.

Season: The embrace - Theme: Dissociation hinges

In this class, we looked at a very important concept that we call hinges. You probably know the dissociation technique, eg. the action of moving the torso and the lower body independently. The concept of hinges looks at where the dissociation comes from to help distinguish between side steps and pivots. We applied this concept to a simple promenade and then to a giro for the intermediates.

Season: The embrace - Theme: Compression

Sometimes, followers need to overturn, e.g. turn by more than 180 degrees, or leaders need to communicate a large turn in a position where they can't themselves dissociate much. This is when we use the "compression" technique to communicate the pivot and help the follower execute it. A very useful tool that enables graceful pivots.

Season: The embrace - Theme: Pivots in very close embrace

In this class, we explored pivots in close embrace, including an elegant step where the follower turns around the leader, which can be used as an entry to a giro.

Season: The embrace - Theme: Pivots in tight embrace

There's something effortlessly elegant about 360-degree pivots in very close embrace. There's a bit of secret to them and with the right technique, you'll add them to your repertoire of steps in no time.