When we move forward, the iliopsoas (a muscle consisting of the
iliacus and psoas major muscles) and other hip flexors contract, causing a
forward leg swing until the foot hits a surface. You basically fall on that foot and repeat
the action with the other leg creating locomotion, otherwise known as…walking. Our bodies are designed to be very efficient
with this ambulation as we fall forward on our heels and roll through to the
toes.
Walking differs from dancing in many ways. There are no accidental
steps in dancing. There is an exact foot placement and exact amount of turn. Combined
with many more physical actions, one can create graceful movement through time
and space in partnership with another. Many muscle groups and work are involved
throughout the body to execute dance steps while maintaining a frame and
connection with a partner. A student of dance may dutifully show up for
instruction and practice dance figures, yet fail to work on the most important
aspect of partnering, motion, and balance…themself!
We can’t change the
natural laws of our universe. Gravity and energy are always going to influence
our movement. We must, therefore, become aware of our physical weaknesses and
then pursue a form of training that generates correction. Sometimes achieving
better balance can be as simple as more rotation in the upper torso or a shift
of head weight. Sometimes a personal compensatory action is employed or a
mental strategy involving analogies might create the desired result. Sometimes
there is a limited range of motion, or lack of flexibility, strength, or
endurance. If "it" is preventing us from dancing at a higher level,
it doesn’t really matter whether it originates from an old injury or some
under-developed muscle. As a dance instructor, I teach the patterns and rhythm
of a particular dance, the necessary technique, and the lead/follow aspects of
partnering. It is important for me to
also identify the physical issues preventing precise movement and balance and
coach my students in corrective exercises. 
I walk the walk with regular chiropractic care and massage therapy to not only
ensure wellness, but to enable me to perform my job of dancing and coaching. I
find that I must endure the sometimes painful exercise of foam rolling my
iliotibial (IT) bands to maintain muscle elasticity and range of motion and
flexibility. I must also perform exercises to maintain my muscle strength,
particularly around weakened or injured joints. Essentially, I am a
never-ending project so that I can continue to do the job I most enjoy––
instructing dance. I encourage my students to do the same, which will help them
achieve better movement in addition to a healthier lifestyle. Fitness is a
necessity in dance. Stronger core and leg muscles together with increased
flexibility will result in more control of our movement, i.e. better dancing!
So the next time you trip off a step or stumble into a room, remember that to
dance is not just an accidental walk in the park.