So, how do you go about developing the elusive quality of balance? As mentioned in our previous article “The First Element – The Supporting Leg”,  you start by understanding the three following elements and practice a few simple exercises to develop them:

• The Supporting Leg
• Vertical Alignment
• Horizontal Alignment

In this article we will be providing you with an easy exercise to develop your second element. An awareness of your Vertical Alignment.

THE SECOND ELEMENT – “VERTICAL ALIGNMENT”   Refers to the vertical alignment of the three main body blocks:

1. Knees
2. Hips
3. Shoulders

PRINT THIS PAGE AND TRY THE FOLLOWING EXERCISE

Stand in front of a full body mirror and turn sideways so that you are looking at the mirror over either your left or right shoulder.   Bring your feet together, ankles touching and toes a little apart at a 45 degrees angle.

Now, keeping your knees together bring them forward so they are aligned vertically on top of your big toes.

Bring your hips forward to vertically align with your knees and the toes or balls of feet.

Bring your shoulders forward so they are aligned with your hips, knees and balls of feet.   If you point your arms straight down you should see in the mirror, that your shoulders, hips, knees and balls of feet follow a straight vertical line.

Maintaining this alignment slowly put pressure on the balls of your feet and lift the heels off the floor (keep ankles touching). You should be able to go up and down on your toes without falling backward or forward.

With a little practice you will be able to stay on your toes in perfect balance. You will be on your way to mastering the rise and fall of the smooth dances such as Waltz, Foxtrot and Quickstep. You will also achieve better balance and coordination during many everyday activities.

Happy Dancing,

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Blanche & Emilio
Next Issue: (Part 3 of 3)
THE THIRD ELEMENT – “HORIZONTAL ALIGNMENT”
A key ingredient for turning and spinning in balance.

LIBRERO MULTIMEDIA PRODUCTIONS –
Emilio and Blanche Librero have been operating their own successful Dance Studio in Tampa and producing high quality instructional videos since 1979. Librero’s “How to Become a Good Dancer” video series is sold nationwide, and has been feature on Television and Radio, as well as printed publications throughout the country.

Contact Emilio or Blanche Librero for more insights into this topic. Toll free number 1-800-443-5641
Email: librero@dancetimes.com
Other helpful information can be found at: http://www.ballroomdance101.com

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