Sri Lanka Airlines - Frame - What is it and Where is it?

Frame is the way in which you connect to your partner, to dancers. Eye glasses or even a way to keep score while bowling, the reference to ones body or mass, a rigid structure that supports a building, something that encloses something else: such as a picture or mirror, a frame can be a state of mind. It has many meanings. Frame is an interesting word. As dancers' we have all heard the word "Frame".

Dance frame and connection occur in both open and closed dance positions. Without frame and connection dancing is nearly impossible and not much fun! It is the connection between two people allowing you to move effortlessly around the dance floor. Dance frame is the foundation of dance.

But yet relax your arms, it can be very confusing when told to have "frame". And then arms that are too stiff and too strong, most people go through the spaghetti arm phase. It takes a lot of practice and experience to do so. It can be very difficult for a beginning dancer to understand and establish a good dance frame. Not in yours arms, in your lats, your frame is in your back, stiffening in the arms when in all actuality, many people confuse "frame" as a rigid.

Without them being stiff and rigid, in your arms to communicate with your partner, not tension, you need enough tone. It is not one of rigidity, while a certain amount of tension is needed in your arms. Reaching for the floor, is to stand up straight and tall and then roll your shoulders back and down, a good exercise to help you achieve frame in your back as opposed to your arms.

But keep it connected, keep it light. That also goes for the weight of your own arm on your partners shoulder. It is exhausting and will eventually cause injury. No one wants to dance while holding up their partners arm. This goes for men and women alike. You are also responsible for the weight of your own arms.

You may be pleasantly surprised to find your partner doing the same. Lighten your arms and retain your frame in your lats and see how your partner responds. Especially at a beginning level, dancers often respond to the amount of tension that they are given. You will be amazed at how your partner reacts to your frame. Pay attention to what feels comfortable and be aware of your own frame, while social dancing with different partners. Achieving a good dance frame should be the goal of all dancers.