Latin Dance Anatomy

“Fundamental Movement Patterns” - restores the basic appearance of dance

 

Complex movements involving multi-joint participation and multi-angle changes seen in various types of sports are actually derivations of the six fundamental movement patterns.  Careful breakdown of the movement components will help dancers achieve an in-depth understanding of sequences of movement initiation in the essentials of each of their dance movements.  Through optimising their choice of exercise drills and training efficiency, this improved understanding of the body will be able to be translated into better performance on the dance floor.

 

“Applied Joint Anatomy and the Fascia System” – underlying anatomical principles behind dance movements

 

Through acquiring an understanding of the fascia system, dancers will be able to gain a high level of clarity and direction in their dancing to aid their ability in “identifying” and “analysing” the “principle” and “meaning” behind movements often encountered and taught about in their daily practice.

 

“Release the Body” – a shortcut to success for dancers

 

There is a lack in consensus on the understanding of the word “core” amongst dancers.  Is it a “point” or is it an “area”?  Should it be “tightened” or “maintained”?  This chapter explains the connection between the core and the breath.  When combined with a mastery of joint linkage up and down the body’s kinetic chains, the hidden dynamic potential of the dancer will be released.

 

“Basic Music Theory of Latin Dance” – the soulmate of dancing

 

Music provides the core framework that defines the dance whilst also layering on levels of suggestions that dancers can capitalize on to reach a higher-order of expression in their dancing.  Recognizing and understanding musical theory, the “soulmate” of dancing, will help dancers portray their impeccable musicality on the floor.

 

“Integrating Sequential Movements into Musical Beats” – the proposal of an incomplete dancers cheat code awaiting a collaboration amongst dancers for dancers…

 

Based on the related human bodily structures, basic kinetic movement biomechanical principles, and the basic musical theory of Latin dancing, this chapter summarises the insights of the author’s years of competitive and teaching experience in dancing to approach the analysis of Latin dancing from a new perspective.