Originally Posted by
geoff332
That, to me, is the mis-apprehension that lies at the base of this whole issue.
Footwork is there every time you move your foot. To suggest that footwork only exists when you're doing very specific footwork patterns, but not the rest of the time, is a real problem.
The basic pattern in MJ is pretty simple: step and weight change on each beat. But just because it's simple doesn't mean it doesn't exist or doesn't need to be taught. I have a few friends who went to a few ceroc lessons and gave up - because they were never sure which foot they should be stepping on.
This is further complicated by the fact that most moves work better if you are on the right foot. This is particularly true when spinning and so forth. Take a first move as an example: when you open, the guy needs to have their weight on their inside (right) foot and step on the left. To do that properly, you need to start the move by stepping back on your left foot. A good lead will also lead the woman back on their right foot. This is really easy, but it's also really important.
(As an aside, this is why I resolutely refuse to do the step from side to side before starting a move. It gets in the way of footwork and makes it harder for me to lead which foot my partner is using).
All the people I enjoy dancing with - including yourself - know this and follow the basic footwork patterns. Part of the reason I enjoy it is that I don't have to worry about what you're doing with your feet. If I've led the last movement properly, I know where your weight will be and which foot you'll be on. That makes it much easier for me to lead you and opens up far more possibilities in the dance.
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