The deceptively simple challenge of walking together
Description
The goal of this mission is walking inline in close embrace. You might think that this is so basic and elementary that it should be one of the first missions. However, it actually takes a lot of technique (clearly invited and perceived back extensions), which is why it is a level 4 mission – and one you will probably be refining your whole tango life!
Steps
Warm up with extensions. In practice embrace, follower extends backwards, returns. Leader shadows, matches.
Now leader invites extension without moving his feet. Hint: solar plexus!
Once the extension feels like it’s being clearly communicated, the leader shadows and matches with free leg.
Repeat 1-2 in a close embace.
Now lead 2 steps inline, then side step. Repeat - this cycles the starting foot. Do this for about half a song.
Try 4 steps inline.
Tips
Good moment to review Extension - stretching leg w/o placing weight
For a backwards extension, it helps to focus on stretching the free leg’s knee and foot as far away from base leg as possible, without moving the base leg at all
When leading 2 or 4 steps in a row inline, be sure you lead BOTH extensions, not just the first one.
Every step needs an extension to be shared before the weight transfer begins.
For this one it can help to switch roles really often
Bonus!
Ready for a challenge? Lead/follow a circle with free legs before 1st step! Downstream, out, upstream, GO!
Watch the mission
Note: The foot circles in the video are an EXTRA CHALLENGE BONUS. They are not the meat of the mission. Have fun!
Fixes? Questions? Feedback?
If you have suggestions for improving this mission, please submit an issue on GitHub and include the mission number. For anything else incluing new mission ideas, sharing your experience, or your interest in learning to teach this manual, get in touch via email.
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