One of the classic problems for ladies is how to take longer back strides in ballroom steps.
Ladies, if your partner is complaining that you’re in the way, check out this super quick tip that may have you rethink where you’re moving from, when you’re stepping back.
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With her husband Erik, they are the founders of DanceSport Place and have a passion to help dancesport competitors reach their dancing goals.
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Hello, I have a question that I have not seen asked on your site. This would be posed to anyone that is a pro-am dancer. I have a pro that I have been taking lessons and dancing competitively for almost five years now. He is very intense and gives 100% to his teaching. However, he often will only see one side of a situation, even when i try to explain my position. He can even be bullying to get a point across. How can i handle this when any issue that comes up is my issue, or my fault? I have tried to have a conversation after class if time permits. Occasionally, he will apologize for his brusque comments. I am ready to walk away.
What do you suggest, as I don’t think that he is going to change.
The relationship between coach and student can sometimes is difficult. A coach wants the best for you, and is the expert when it comes to dancing. However, that doesn’t make him/her infallible. A coach should also see, especially as their student becomes more advanced, that questions shouldn’t be brushed off with a “because I said so” attitude.
I’m sure your coach has your best in mind, but it’s hard to work with someone that doesn’t allow for mutual communication. After all, you are a paying (and after 5 years, loyal) consumer and an adult, who deserves to be heard.
I suggest that you ask for time apart from your lesson to discuss your future goals and dancing together. Make it known that you appreciate his commitment and intensity in teaching, but you require him to be respectful of your need for communication.
If things don’t change, than perhaps it’s time for a change of coaches. After all, you cannot reach your full potential when this is affecting you. If it comes to that, you can be thankful and grateful for the many years of good instruction you’ve received and move on to another coach that better meets your needs at this time in your dancing.