Correct technique for Shoulder Drop?

[TurboTomato]

I went to a different venue last night and during the beginners class we did the shoulder drop. No different to normal then - but a certain part of the move the teacher was showing us something different to what I've been taught before. So the shoulder drop, in order; turn the lady anti-clockwise, turn yourself, right hand to right shoulder, then - this is where it differs - step to left, extend right arm out but drop it down to waist level, right hand back to shoulder etc etc. I've always been taught that when you extend your right arm out and step left that your arm remains at shoulder level rather than dropping down to waist level.

Does anyone have any comments as to which one is correct or whether they are both as valid as each other?

TIA

[MartinHarper]

Both versions work fine. Waist level is a clearer lead.

[Andreas]

This description somehow does not sound like any shoulder drop I know. But then again, neither does the fact that it was taught at a beginners class.

[ducasi]

Both versions work fine. Waist level is a clearer lead.

I'd say though that keeping your right hand high sounds a bit awkward both for you, and for your partner.

[Gav]

Does anyone have any comments as to which one is correct or whether they are both as valid as each other?

TIA

I was there and I thought it was odd too, but I think it's a style thing more than anything.

Most men don't use there spare arm for very much at all, so when your left arm is hanging low by your side, putting you right arm low gives some symmetry.

Personally, when I do a shoulder drop (over and over again ), I fling my left arm out to the side, whilst keeping my right arm high, also maintaining symmetry.

HTH.

[Lynn]

I thought bringing the right arm to waist level as you step to the left was a safety thing as well - sticking your arm out to the side, but not at anyone's face height?

[LMC]

Appearance-wise, I don't think it really matters (shrug). Most important thing IMO is consideration a) for follower's height relative to the lead (including Lynn's safety point mentioned above, but also thinking about potential for 'yanking' if the follower is much shorter) b) if in freestyle, checking that there is enough space for that arm extension.

[Gav]

I thought bringing the right arm to waist level as you step to the left was a safety thing as well - sticking your arm out to the side, but not at anyone's face height?

Appearance-wise, I don't think it really matters (shrug). Most important thing IMO is consideration a) for follower's height relative to the lead (including Lynn's safety point mentioned above, but also thinking about potential for 'yanking' if the follower is much shorter) b) if in freestyle, checking that there is enough space for that arm extension.

That's down to consideration for your partner and floorcraft.
My right arm goes out at their shoulder height and my left arm goes out at the same height, but only if there's room and I'm not going to slap someone in the chops!