The just-studied Balance Left starts (for the man) by moving left. Balance Right is a near-identical figure, except it starts (for the man) by moving right.
Remember that cues are always directed to the man. The woman must adjust accordingly, based on the current position. For example, if a couple is in Closed Position and the cue is ‘Balance Right’, then the man balances right, but the woman balances left.
This lesson starts by presenting the man’s steps. The couple diagrams show how the woman adjusts appropriately, depending on the current position.
Why is ‘Balance Right’ called a balance? From Step 2 (Cross in Back) to Step 3 (In Place), the dancer merely transfers weight from one foot to the other. This transfer of weight feels like a graceful balancing action.
The ball of the foot is the padded area just behind your toes. In any balance, the foot that takes weight in Step 2 lands on the ball of the foot. That foot can then push off lightly to create a gentle rising motion. Watch for this in the video clips below!
Notes
- Balance Right must begin with moving the right foot (for the man). If the cuer says ‘Balance Right’ when man’s left foot is free, then something is amiss!
- ‘In Place’ means that a foot takes weight, but doesn’t move from its current position.
- The basic action for any side balance (left or right) is always: Side, Cross In Back, In Place.
- Balance Left and Balance Right are commonly cued together as Balance Left and Right.