How to dip like the pros!
One of our favorite dance moves is the iconic dip and so many of our students are eager to learn how to dip their partners and be dipped in a dance routine.
However, there are a few things to know before you dazzle the audience with a dip. So, here are our pro TIPS for Pro DIPS.
First, learn the proper dance frame.
Before attempting a dip, make sure you are standing properly with your partner in the correct dance frame. That means your arms should be held strong.
The leaders' left hand should be connected to follower’s right, or supporting followers behind their back for extra security.
The followers should rest their left arm on leader’s right arm just below the shoulder without weight.
Our instructors will assist you in getting into the proper dance frame before attempting a dip. Just remember, dancing with a partner is not a 50-50 game. BOTH the leader and the follower need to be giving 100% effort for a solid dip.
To Lead a Dip...
Don’t bend forward! Instead stand straight up and rotate your upper body. Otherwise, you both risk dipping and well… falling.
Support behind your partner’s shoulders and back.
Keep your arms firm and in front of your partner's body. Don’t push your arms into their space.
Step with a bent knee under and toward the follower to dip.
Read social cues! That means don’t dip your partner if they’re not 100% comfortable.
Be aware of your surroundings. You won’t want to dip your partner in an area where they could get hurt.
To Follow a Dip...
Support your own weight in your legs and core muscles. In other words, don’t rely entirely on your partner to hold you up.
Soften your knees, relax your neck and shoulders.
Trust your partner instead of tensing up, making it harder for them to dip you.
Communicate with your partner if you’re uncomfortable going into a dip.
Don’t rush in or out of the dip. Allow your partner to truly lead the way and lean into the fun of it!
When should we dip?
Overall, there are a few foolproof ways to know when to dip your partner.
Dip when it's safe. Check your surroundings, especially at a crowded club and dance floor, to make sure your partner won’t get hurt if you decide to dip.
Dip when the music tells you to. Wait until the end of the song or an accent in the music. Then, especially in a performance if your dip is at the end of a song, hold your watermelons! Wait 1 watermelon - 2 watermelon - 3 watermelon before releasing out the dip. Soak in the applause!
Dip when your partner appears comfortable. Make sure you’re communicating with your partner, either by feeling their body language or expressly asking whether they’d be ok with a dip. Feel each other out and make sure both partners are ready!
