Learn Faster & Better by Changing Partners

Nov 2

Learn to Dance Faster by Changing Partners

To rotate or not rotate? Although we get plenty of singles enrolling in our group classes, many couples also sign up together. Singles, of course, rotate as they may not have a set partner and are fortunate to be able to dance with everyone. But, should a couple rotate or just stay together?

Why Rotating Partners is Best

In my 30 years of teaching social dance, it never fails….students that rotate learn better and faster than students who just stick with the one partner they may have signed up with. When you rotate, you get to experience partners of different levels and abilities. The most talented will help you get through the patterns and technical aspects successfully. The most challenged will make you focus more and learn to accommodate and make adjustments. You will learn a little something with every different partner, and each time you get through a rotation, you’ll reinforce those mini lessons and grow faster.

When couples just stay together and do not rotate, they tend to not pay full attention to the teacher and instruction

Often they are busy talking to each other about what they think they should be doing, giving each other misguided advice, possibly bickering, or just otherwise being distracted. When rotating, students are more aware of their behavior, and are less likely to distract their partner from the instruction and pacing of the class.

Couples that don’t rotate tend to fall behind

Because they often fixate on one portion of the lesson, they sometimes fall behind and aren’t able to move on efficiently. When rotating, they keep pace with the rest of class, and move through the new material, drills, and practice on pace with the rest of the class, and as the instructor has designed.

You’ll eventually get back to your original partner, and you’ll both be better when you do!

Class is usually set up in a circle, so you and your partner will rotate around the circle, and by the time you get back to your original partner, you’re guaranteed to be better!

Want to stay with your partner anyways? Please do!

You always have the right to not rotate and stay with your partner. Although most do rotate, just tell the instructor at the beginning of class that you want to stay together, and the instructor will set up the class so you can stay together. If you change your mind and want to try a round of rotation at any point, just let the instructor know, or just get into the rotation. You’ll meet a lot of new friends too!