Is your first step going to tell your partner, "I'm here, alert, and ready for anything. Now let's start our 3-minute date"? Or will it set the tone for a tango of sloppiness or of clutching dependence?
Let's talk about when your tango begins with an opening to your right (for those using the academic 8-count-basic, this would be "2").
Many women make the following error, which, if you do it, immediately makes you lose your balance slightly and need to rely on the man to steady you. You're probably not aware of it, because, as is so common, it's a habit and seems normal. Here it is:
You take the launch to your right, letting your weight fall on the outer right side of your hip and leg. That alone would cause you to lean on the man's right hand for balance, but if at the same time, you "collect" your feet, you risk exacerbating the problem of throwing your weight onto your partner's left hand. This is such a common habit that he's used to supporting the woman with his left hand at this point.
How'd you like to start each tango feeling like a tiger?
Launch yourself with the same degree of energy you feel in the lead, the inside edge of your right shoe skimming the floor, and land with your weight in the center of your body. That is, immediately seek your balance, by finding your center over the inside of your right leg and foot. In other words, let the central axis of your body continue down inside your right leg and foot. And just relax your left leg. Ahhh . . . It relaxes and falls under you to the degree that your partner asks you to flex or straighten the knee of your standing leg. How does that feel, compared to snapping that leg closed like a solder at attention?
You'll be autonomous, and alert, with all your energy poised to make whatever move is proposed. Like a tiger or a panther ready to take off with that incredible grace and power they're famous for. You can be famous for it too.
And your relaxed left leg will be free to embellish, if you like.
Try practicing this, and see what a difference it makes in your tango.
