Topline Dance Frame - The Ballroom Dancers Secrets!

Topline Dance Frame - The Teaching Tool for Ballroom Dancers.

Are you struggling to achieve that posture on Ballroom Dance?
We think that Topline Dance Frame may be what you are looking for.

The Topline Dance Frame is a teaching and training tool used by many Ballroom Dancer worldwide. It not only helps maintains stillness in the arms and shoulders, but improves rotation in the mid-section of the body, making your dancing fluid.

The fusion of technology and topline have resulted in a new training aid to help ballroom dancers achieve the perfect posture.
TopLine Dance Frame uses the body’s own ability for muscle memory to train itself over time into adopting stillness in the upper body while developing shaping through body rotation.
The British-made innovation, which comes in three sizes to fit all ages and body shapes, has been two years in development and is now available to buy through DanceSportShop.

It’s been produced using light-weight materials and uses a modular design that can be altered to suit the user. It’s also easy to assemble and can fit into a shoe bag for travel and storage.

TopLine ambassador, British Amateur Ballroom Champion, Mark Elsbury (pictured with wife and dance partner Olga below) said that it offers dancers the chance to “seriously improve their dancing.”
“It really does work. You can see the difference after only a short time. It doesn’t encourage the dancer to rest on the frame but promotes the right position and allows the muscles to work for themselves. Then, when you dance without the frame your body remembers where it needs to be and helps to sustain the right positon.”

This means that TopLine naturally assists in the evolution of your dance technique, prohibits bad habits and provides you with a competitive advantage at any level.

Lear here How to Use the Topline Dance Frame. You will find several videos with demonstrations and how to assemble and wear your dance frame.

Features

Modular

The TopLine Dance Frame consists of 5 separate lightweight pieces which simply slot together and click into place. After training, the frame is easily separated and the modular design means that the frame fits easily into a shoe or sports bag making transport effortless.

Adjustable

The frame is available in 3 sizes – small, medium and large. Each frame has 12 adjustment points, allowing it to be custom-fitted for both height and width, and enabling it to be altered to suit dancers with different statures and body shapes.
The frame can also be offset to balance out an uneven shoulder line or to drop the right arm slightly for tango hold. See our how to assemble video for details

Adaptable

The components from each of the three sizes can inter-connect, giving the frame greater flexibility to meet the requirements of any anatomy. For example, a slim dancer with longer than average arms may require the neck piece from a medium frame but the connectors and arm sections from the larger version.
Teachers who buy a set for their studio can adapt the frames in this way to provider the user with a tailor-made fit. The Red One is particularly useful in a teaching environment as it can be clearly seen against dark practice wear.
If you’re buying one for yourself and think you may have special requirements please contact us and we will provide a package to suit.

Benefits

TopLine Dance Frame not only help maintains stillness in the arms and shoulders but improves rotation in the mid-section of the body improving the shaping and fluidity of your dancing.
Controlling the topline means the body is encouraged to lift when taking hold with your partner and rotate from the centre when moving into open variations such as promenade position.
This naturally assists in the evolution of your dance technique prohibiting bad habits that occur over time or as a consequence of introducing new choreography providing you with competitive advantage at any grade.

You will find this great dance tool at the DanceSport Shop website: www.DanceSportShop.com.

How to Use the Topline Dance Frame

How to Use the Top Line Dance Frame

Watch this video and learn how to use the Topline Dance Frame to improve your Ballroom posture.

In this first video watch an intro about the Topline Dance Frame:

Demonstration of Topline Dance Frame

See, British Closed and UK Closed Champions Mark and Olga Elsbury, performing with the frame. As you can see, even complex choreography and the most dramatic lines can be achieved while using it.

How to Assemble the Topline Dance Frame

The ‘how to assemble’ film illustrates how the dance frame is put together, where the silicon grips should be placed to minimise slippage and there’s also a video to show you the best way of applying your comfort grips.

How to Wear

The ‘how to wear’ clip shows you how the dance frame sits against the body and how far it should be extended in relation to the span of your arms when in hold.

You can purchase your Topline Dance Frame at DanceSport Shop website: www.DanceSportShop.com They ship all over the world

Ballroom Cartoon

Thanks to Claud Cray from BallroomJunkie for this great Cartoons.

15 Truths About Being a Professional Ballroom Dancer

1. Dance is hard. – No ballroom dancer ever became successful riding on their natural born talents only. Dancers are artists and athletes. The world of dance today is akin to an extreme sport. Natural ability and talent will only get us so far. Ballroom Dancers must work hard and persevere. Dancers give years of their lives plus their sweat, tears and sometimes blood to have the honor and pleasure of performing on the best competitions and stages.

2. You won’t always get what you want. – We don’t always get the place we wanted, do it perfectly well when we want, hear the compliments we want, make the money we want, won a national competition as quick as we want, etc, etc. This teaches us humility and respect for the process, the art form and the masters we have chosen to teach us. The faster we accept this, the faster we can get on with being brilliant. We’ll never be 100% sure it will work, but we can always be 100% sure doing nothing won’t work.

3. There’s a lot you don’t know. – There is always more a dancer can learn. Even our least favorite teachers, choreographers and directors can teach us something. The minute we think we know it all, we stop being a valuable asset.

4. There may not be a tomorrow. – A dancer never knows when their dance career will suddenly vanish: career ending injury, car accident, death…Dance every day as if it is the final performance. Don’t save the joy of dance for the dance floor. Infuse even your routine classroom exercises with passion!

5. There’s a lot you can’t control. – You can’t control who likes your work, who doesn’t, the politics of a dance competition, etc. Don’t waste your talent and energy worrying about things you can’t control. Focus on honing your craft, being the best dancer you can be. Keep an open mind and a positive attitude.

6. Information is not true knowledge. – Knowledge comes from experience. You can discuss a task a hundred times, go to 1000 classes, but unless we get out there and perform we will only have a philosophical understanding of dance. Find opportunities to get on dance florr. You must experience performance firsthand to call yourself a professional dancer.

7. If you want to be successful, prove you are valuable. – The fastest way to loose a partner is to prove to your partner he/she doesn’t need you. Instead, be indispensable. Show up early, know your material, be prepared, talk to your partner, set goals and above all be willing to work hard.

8. Someone else will always have more than you/be better than you. – Whether it’s charisma, talent, energy, money, better teachers, great sponsors or trophies, it does not matter. Rather than get caught up in the drama about what others are doing around you, focus on the things you are good at, the things you need to work on and the things that make you happiest as a dancer.

9. You can’t change the past. – Everyone has a past. Everyone has made mistakes, and everyone has glorious moments they want to savor. “Would you keep a chive in your tooth just because you enjoyed last night’s potato?” Boston Common TV Series. Dance is an art form that forces us to concentrate on the present. To be a master at dance we have be in the moment; the minute the mind wanders, injuries happen. If they do, see #12.

10. The only person who can make you happy is you. – Dancing in and of itself cannot make us happy. The root of our happiness comes from our relationship with ourselves, not from how much money we make, what part we were given, what company we dance for, or how many competitions we won. Sure these things can have effects on our mood, but in the long run it’s who we are on the inside that makes us happy.

11. There will always be people who don’t like you. – Dancers are on public display when they perform and especially in this internet world, critics abound. You can’t be everything to everyone. No matter what you do, there will always be someone who thinks differently. So concentrate on doing what you know in your heart is right. What others think and say about you isn’t all that important. What is important is how you feel about yourself.

12.Sometimes you will fail. – Sometimes, despite our best efforts, following the best advice, being in the right place at the right time, we still fail. Failure is a part of life. Failure can be the catalyst to some of our greatest growth and learning experiences. If we never failed, we would never value our successes. Be willing to fail. When it happens to you (because it will happen to you), embrace the lesson that comes with the failure.

13. Sometimes you will have to work for free. – Every professional dancer has at one time or another had to work without pay. If you are asked to work for free, be sure that you are really ok with it. There are many good reasons to work for free, and there are just as many reasons not to work for free. Ask yourself if the cause is worthy, if the experience is worth it, if it will bring you joy. Go into the situation fully aware of the financial agreement and don’t expect a hand out later.

14. Repetition is good. Doing the same thing over and over expecting a different result is insane. – If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’ll keep getting what you’re getting. If you keep doing the bare minimum of required classes, don’t complain to your teacher when you don’t move up to the next level. If you only give the bare minimum in your company, be happy staying in the corps. If you want to grow beyond your comfort zone, you must push yourself beyond your self-imposed limitations.

15. You will never feel 100% ready. – Nobody ever feels 100% ready when an opportunity arises. Dancers have to be willing to take risks. From letting go of the ballet barre to balance, to moving around the world to dance with a new company, from trusting a new partner to trying a new form of dance, dancers must have a flexible mind and attitude as well as body. The greatest opportunities in life force us to grow beyond our comfort zones, which means you won’t feel totally comfortable or ready for it.

Found via Credit towards Melanie Doskocil on her blog, Ballet Pages. Tottally applied to Ballroom and Latin dancers. Thanks Michelle for bringing it to our attention! Dancers, any thoughts? Teachers, any other points you would add?

Get your New Dance Shoes at DanceSportShop.com

TIPS FOR BALLROOM DANCE SHOES

Ballroom Dance Shoes are the ballroom dancer best friend.

They provide you balance, they are light and... beautiful. At the same time they are difficult to take care, and when you find the perfect pair... its time to buy another one. To help you, we want to provide you some tips we have learned over the years.

The Basics of Ballroom Dance Shoes:

1. Buy your first pair of dance shoes in person (store, dance studio or dance competition). You are not obligated to purchase if they do not fit and you can try different ones untill you find the one.
2. Most times once you know your shoe size in a brand, other styles run similar in sizing. The better ballroom dance shoes are made in Europe, mainly in UK. You will need to know your size using the UK or European System. You can also use those following links: Men's Shoe Size Conversion or Women's Shoes Size Conversion.
3. Ladies, your first pair of dance shoes should be nude (tan) because it goes with everything. Then you can go for a black ones or even another colour. The most common colours are Tan and Black.
4. Go for a shoe that feel firm. With the time the leather tends to go bigger and you finish with a big dance shoes.
5. On the other side, your shoe should feel firm but not too tight. There is a balance...
6. If you have a large feet, there are brands that will provide you the same model but with a bigger width, like the UK manufacturer International Dance Shoes. There are also other dance shoes with an expandable front (elastic or buckle).
7. To start go for a 2'' or 2,5''  (6,5 cm) heel. Of course, if you are used to high heels don't be afraid to try a 3'' (8 cm) heel. You will look much better.
8. If you have a small feet and you are ok with a low heel, you can choose a Girls dance shoes. You will save a significant saving and the quality is similar.

How to feel comfortable with your dance shoes:

1. If shoes are too tight you can stretch them a little by using a traditional shoe stretcher or any type of cylinder (like a vitamin bottle) that fits snugly in the shoe. Carefully wet the under part of the straps (don’t get water on top or you will have water spots). Place stretcher or cylinder inside the shoe and let it dry over night. You may have to do this twice.
2. You can also put on a light sock the first couple of time to allow it to stretch without the ouch!
3. With the shoe off bend the front part of the shoe almost in a rolling action up and down. This makes the front part of your shoe more flexible so when you point it is easier.
4. For Men’s Dance Shoes to stretch them. Sit down with the shoes on and using your hands bend (arch) you foot and then flex your foot and toes. Continue doing this for a while. This would be a great thing to do while watching your favourite program on TV.

How do I extend the life of my Ballroom Dance Shoes?

1. If you plan to dance for a while, get a good pair of shoes such as Supadance, International, or Ray Rose. They are expensive but will last longer and will provide solid support for your feet.
2. There are a few aids to make shoes last longer: Clear heel tips, replacement heels (easily replaced), heel protectors, and a suede brush.
3. If you brush your shoes away from the heel the nap stand us longer.
4. Outside of obvious breakage (ie the nail is scratching the floor) these are the times when you should replace your shoes…. when the suaded leather does not come back to a suaded finish when brushing, when the padding inside of them is so flattened that you can see the circles of the nail heads in the heels, when your shoe is stretched so much that you are now slipping, and when you can smell your shoes when you are standing up (haha).

How to Become a Better Ballroom and Latin Dancer

In Ballroom Dancing, improving your dancing skills after you've been a beginner for a time requires increased dedication and a willingness to try new skills that will push you beyond beginner boundaries. Here you will find some tips to become a better Ballroom and Latin Dancer.

1. Practice

Practice makes perfect. This is basic... Of course, no one is perfect, but everything can be improved. Practicing can definitely improve your technique, steps, confidence, etc. But attention. The way you practice is very important on your future success. Practice clever is better that practice 25 hours a day.

2. Strech & Warm Up

Stretching and Warm Up can improve your flexibility as well as your dancing. The more stretched you are, the better your lines will look, and your steps, etc. Stretching can also help prevent injuries. Even small stretches like jumping-jacks or stretching in the running position helps stretch out your hips for more flexibility. You want to do your best on the the dance floor, so don't forget to warm up correctly all the times.

3. Nutrition

A good diet (not one of the ones you go on to lose weight!) can make you a better dancer. The better you eat, the better you are. If you dance you are doing a body exercise. So you will for sure need more nutrition then a "normal" person. Pay attention to your blood levels, and take supplements if you need it.

4. Exercise

Exercising can help you be a better ballroom anda latin dancer, too. Crunches can make it easier to keep your balance on turns and steps that you have to hold. Push up makes your posture and your shoulders look much better.

5. Do ballet.

Whatever your choice of dance, ballet is the foundation of all dance. It can help improve your technique and your posture. Even if you don't do ballet or not interested. Just dance for fun.

6. Rest

You need to practice, you need to eat well, but you also need to rest. If your body is not rested enough your practice will be waisted. A good night of rest is very important to your success as Ballroom and Latin Dancer. Don't forget also to rest your head. At least one day a week take one day off to do different things, not related to dance.

7. Have Fun

We understand that you want to be the next World Latin / Ballroom Champion. But meanwhile don't forget to have fun during all the way. You will find difficulties and obstacles, so keep focus on your goal and have fun in every single step. In the end of the day is that smile that you will keep :)

10 Rules of Etiquette You Should Know for Ballroom Dancing

One of the beautiful aspects of ballroom dancing is the way the dancers follow the unwritten rules of etiquette. Maybe you already know them; just consider this a gentle reminder. If you're brand new to ballroom dancing, you may not be aware they even exist. The rules are not hard to remember, and will soon become second nature as you practice following them. It's partially because of these rules of etiquette that the ballroom dance floor is one of the few places left on earth where graciousness is almost always in evidence.

1.Dance travel around the floor always follows a counter-clockwise direction. This is to reduce, if not eliminate, your chances of colliding with another couple.

2.If you do happen to collide with another couple, offer a smile and a sincere apology. This is not a smash-car derby and no one intentionally runs into another couple. But even with everyone traveling in the same direction, it does happen from time to time. Make sure that your partner is alright, then shake it off, re-establish your frame and keep dancing!

3.The outermost edge of the dance floor is customarily traveled by more fast-paced dancers; slower dancers typically make their way around the floor in the inner lane. During a dance that travels, like the foxtrot, waltz or tango for example, the center of the floor is typically used for those not traveling or couples who wish to practice a particular movement.

4. It's perfectly acceptable for a dance invitation to be given by either gender. A woman is not seen as a hoochie-mama if she asks a man to dance, neither is a man considered a letch if he asks a woman for a dance.

5.It's also perfectly acceptable to dance with someone besides your partner. In fact, in most studios it's encouraged and most dancers enjoy the variety of dance partners. Dancing with someone besides your partner will strengthen the man's leading skills and enhance the woman's following skills.

6.Regardless of who asked for the dance, it's customary that the man return the woman to her seat. At a ballroom dance function, it's rare that you'll ever see the man turn and walk away from his partner when the music stops. Chivalry is alive and well in ballroom dancing!

7. When dancing with someone less proficient than yourself, it's generally expected that you'll be dancing at their level of experience, not yours. There's no need to be shy about dancing with someone who's more experienced than you. It will do more than you can imagine to boost your confidence.

8. Dance invitations are rarely rejected. It's considered polite to dance with whoever asks. Of course, it's reasonable to expect that you might ask for a delay if you've just come off the floor from a fast-paced swing or Latin dance and need some time to catch your breath.

9. Applause is often heard when the music stops, even when there's no live band. Dancers applaud their partner and each other. When the lady has been returned to her seat, it's appropriate for both to offer a thank-you for the dance.

10, Be considerate and remember you'll be in close contact with other people; be sure you're fresh and clean and keep mints handy.

Of course, this list is not complete, and these are not hard and fast rules; there's no punishment enforced if you don't follow them. But most dancers do. The politeness and consideration that dancers show one another, added to the elegance and grace that surrounds ballroom dancing, has kept it alive for centuries.

Related articles

• It's Time to Bring Back Mandatory Ballroom Dancing (acculturated.com)

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