Dear Coach,

I would like to know if you have a solution for a problem I have experienced for many years.  I am 5’2” tall and a Ballroom dancer.  Many of the gentlemen I dance with are 6’ tall and taller.  Is there a way to solve the problem of Mutt and Jeff when dancing the Waltz and Quickstep where long steps are the desired styling for these dances?  It makes these dances very difficult and tiring for me.

J. Hughes, Portland, Oregon

Dear Ms. Hughes,

To solve this problem dance with someone shorter.  (Just kidding.) 

The solution to this problem is that the man must learn how to adjust to the height of the woman he is dancing with.  Many times a tall dancer will dance where he is most comfortable, but this may not be comfortable for his partner.  To adjust, the lead hand should be slightly below the chin level of the person shortest in height, be it man or woman.  The man’s right hand that is around the lady should also be adjusted.  When partners dancing together with a difference in size, the taller of the two must adjust their steps to accommodate their partner.  WARNING : This does not mean the taller partner should slouch or bend over to match the height of the shorter person.  Both partners should stand as tall as possible, adjusting step strides and hand positions.  Remember, to be a good dancer does not require long steps but rather proper technique, such as footwork, sways, body frame and smooth flowing steps. 

When watching professional competitive dancers you will note that they stretch their legs and steps to the max, but if you look closely you will also note that these couples are matched in size so that their steps and floor presence is compatible.  The difference in height is rarely over 2-3 inches in couples competing in the smooth dances.  Exceptions are in Theater Arts where the man has a definite advantage in being larger and stronger than the woman because of lifts and drops.

I hope this helps you (or rather, potential dance partners of yours) realize the problems shorter partners have in keeping up with a Daddy Long Legs.