6 styling & shine tips to elevate your salsa styling
Reading time: 5 min.
Drama! Arms! Finger egg! Headflick! These are just a few terms used in salsa styling, and if you’ve done classes with me before, you heard them a lot. Styling is all about adding flair to your dancing with extra movements using one or more body parts. The shine (also known as freestyle or solo work) is another form of styling. It draws attention to you and your partner, potentially making your dancing look spectacular or, unfortunately, quite the opposite. It can make you feel free or clumsy.
It's a good time to review these tips to get you started.
Tips for improving your salsa styling
1. Don't overstyle
It's easy to get caught up in your own moves and lose sight of your partner. Remember, quality over quantity. Enjoy the dance and focus on connecting with your partner.
2. Practice regularly
Practice makes perfect! If a move feels awkward, practice it alone until it feels natural. Once you're comfortable, incorporate it into your dancing. Focus on a few new moves at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
3. Breathe
It might sound silly, but many dancers hold their breath while dancing. Prioritize following your partner and breathing naturally. With time, it will become second nature.
4. Learn new moves
Once you're comfortable with one style, learn something new and mix it up. Watch other dancers for inspiration and create your own unique style.
5. Smile
Enjoy yourself! A smile makes everything look better. Even if you're nervous, fake it till you make it.
6. Ask men to dance on slow songs
Slow songs provide ample time to practice your styling. They're also great for dancing with less experienced partners, as you can focus on your own moves without worrying about complex lead and follow techniques. Just make sure to give them eye contact and a smile to make them feel at ease.
Additional tips to consider:
- Focus on your posture: Good posture enhances your overall look and feel.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Your shoes should allow you to move freely and confidently.
- Record yourself: This can help you identify areas for improvement.
- Take a styling class: A qualified instructor can provide personalized feedback and help you develop your skills.
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to becoming a more confident and expressive salsa dancer.
Mastering salsa styling is a journey, not a destination. It's about self-expression, confidence, and having fun. Remember, every dancer starts somewhere, so don't be afraid to experiment and make mistakes. The more you practice, the closer you'll get to achieving your dream of becoming a captivating dance floor star.
Share your shine!
We'd love to see your styling skills in action! Share your dance videos or photos on social media using the hashtag #AlgarveDancing. Let's inspire each other and create a vibrant dance community!