My partner and I want to dance competitively. We often go out social dancing to get practice. Recently we had a huge argument concerning etiquette on the floor. I felt that she was pulling me up 1 or 2 steps before the next couple because I wanted to dance right up to the next couple. I did not want to unnecessarily anticipate collisions. I felt that her dancing was over cautious. She on the other hand thinks that my dancing is not appropriate for the social scene. That we should be more cautious and carefull in the social scene. My fear is that we may pick up bad habits because we do not dance out. Should we be using the social venues for practicing our social dancing? Should we change our approach to dancing if we do? Should the female dancer anticipate collisions or is it entirely the male dancers role to control the general direction of movement?

Len

Most drag racers don't "practice" in the streets....Dancing is no different.

Hi, I am a competitive standard dancer and I think proper etiquette on a social floor is extremely important so that everyone has a good time. When my partner and I practice on the social floor, it is specifically to practice "driving." We are getting experience trying to fit our routines in when other people are getting in the way. I have to be able to follow any change in the routine that he has to make. It is very important as the follower that I keep my eye out and warn my partner if there is an impending collision. It does take some practice to warn him the right amount. By a simple sqeeze of the arm he can tell if I want him to slow down, stop completely, or just change direction. Leaders have to have good driving skills before you can really move out on a social dance floor.

Amy