Embracing the Foxtrot: A Shift from Waltz to a Playful New Groove

This week, we decided to switch gears—not a drastic change, but a refreshing shift from the Waltz to the Foxtrot. While these two dances share similar foundational movements, the Foxtrot offers a distinct vibe, especially in American style. It brings to mind the jazzy tunes of Frank Sinatra and the smooth sounds of Michael Bublé, making you want to bounce, swing, and shake. It’s all about playful energy!

Despite our experience with the Foxtrot, we've often found it to be a bit plain and even—lacking the spirited flair it deserves. Coming from a standard dance background, I struggled to infuse my Foxtrot with the same rhythm and expressiveness that I felt in my body. This challenge highlighted an essential truth: sometimes, it’s not about what you know, but rather the resources and inspiration you have.

Imagine being an artist who has only painted one type of picture. It’s not that you don’t know how to paint; you just need new ideas and concepts to bring your creativity to life. Exploring new techniques, whether right or wrong, can lead to breakthroughs and spark new connections.

For us, this week’s breakthrough came from our coach.

They introduced some fresh ways to inject life into our Foxtrot. Incorporating elements like slides, chassés, and jumps brought a renewed excitement, much like trying on a new dress. These small changes made a big difference, and I can’t wait to share this new, vibrant version of our Foxtrot with everyone. (And yes, I’m eagerly anticipating our next competition—but more on that later!)

The takeaway? Don’t be afraid to try new classes, styles, and moves. Whether it’s contemporary, hula, or jazz, each new experience will deepen your connection with your body and the music. Embrace the exploration—it’s the key to flourishing as a dancer and artist in the long run.

Warmly,

Natalia