Dipping your partner (or being dipped) is one of the most fun and exciting aspects of swing dance. It’s a great way to end any song and is practical for breaks and just about every ballad ever written. But it’s good to remember that dips aren’t just another step. They’re a trick, and there is a right and a wrong way to approach them. While it’s always best to learn how they’re supposed to feel in a class with a professional instructor, here are a few basics to keep in mind when you try them on a social dance floor.
For Leaders:
Yes, it’s going to be easier if you’re a body builder and your partner disappears when she turns sideways. But that’s very rarely going to be the case, and it’s still okay to dip someone even if they’re twice your weight. The key is preperation. Never rush into a dip. Hitting that beat perfectly is little consolation if you drop your partner in the process. So take your time. Always, always, always, always dip your partner to your left side. Your right hand should be flat palmed behind their back inbetween their shoulder blades. Your left hand can be on their shoulder, behind their head, or holding their hand depending on where you need extra support. Twist your partner so that she is perpendicular to you facing your right. Only when she is positioned comfortably and your hands are supporting you should you start the dip. Step as far out to your left as you are comfortable with and lean your partner back. Remember not to make her uncomfortable. If she only wants to go so far, don’t push her. And remember that even the lightest followers weigh close to 100 lbs, so use common sense. Bend your knees and don’t lift with your back. Above all else, never, ever, ever grunt like you are lifting something heavy… at least not if you ever want to dance with her again.
For Followers:
You might think that because you’re really lightweight, you can trust your partner to hold you easily. Or you might think that because you’re a little bit heavier that you can’t trust anyone to not drop you. Both perspectives are wrong, but as it happens, they both have the same solution. The key is to not surprise your partner. With added momentum from a free fall, you can get heavy in a hurry. And if all that weight comes at once, even a strong leader can stumble. Start off by being patient. You might know well in advance that he’s going to dip you, but don’t actually shift your weight until he starts leaning you back. Wherever your hands are when he starts to dip you, push down to start to take some of the weight off your legs. That means that there will be much less of a weight difference for your leader during the dip itself. When you are being dipped, try to bend at the waist and the knees, almost as though you are sitting down in a chair. This helps to keep your weight over your leader’s center of gravity. Leverage is important here, and the closer you are to your partner the easier it will be. Once you are at the lowest part of the dip, you have the chance to add your own styling. The more bold you are, the more beautiful the step will be. And brushing your leg against your partner or running your fingers through his hair is a quick way to drive any guy wild.
To learn all the coolest dips, call to register today! 605-212-6230
