Movement, Detail, or Technique?
(Differences Explained)

As dancers and instructors, I find that we often use the term “dance techniques” without fully understanding their meaning or how to apply them. (That’s how I started too!) The truth is, many of us may not be able to fully explain a technique if asked. But that’s okay – we’re here to learn and grow together. ❤️

In this blog post, I want to break down the complexities of these terms, to help you have a better understanding of the differences, and apply this knowledge to your individual dance journeys. 

A movement is basically any move in dance. Examples include: 

• Suzy q
• Body wave
• Any arm styling

A detail is any piece of information about the movement, such as:

• Cross your right foot over your left on count 1
• Point your chest upward instead of forward
• Place your hand right below your chest

A technique is the skill to execute it well & efficiently. 

• Align your belly button on top of the balls of your feet whenever you step to ensure good weights 
• Squeeze your upper back to bring your chest forward
• Initiate with momentum from your upper arms to execute your front comb arm styling

To put it simply, techniques are the HOW, and movements/details are the WHAT. 

Without understanding how to execute a movement or details, it is difficult to perfect it.

More examples:

Movement: Basic right turn
Detail: Start turning after count 2
Technique: Lead the rotation with your belly button, not your feet. 

Movement: Chest pop 
Detail: Bring your chest forward
Technique: Squeeze your upper back to bring your chest forward

Movement: Basic comb styling 
Detail: Bring your elbow up to execute the comb 
Technique: Engage your lats to keep your shoulders down and use your upper arm to initiate the comb. Rotate your body diagonally with you so that you don’t compromise your posture. 

More at Brendaliewonline.com. 😉

© Brenda Liew 2023.