Has knowing other dances hurt/helped you when learning Salsa

[peachexploration]

From Dancefreak.com


Knowing how to hip hop, tap, ballet, jazz, flamenco, or any other type of solo dance will obviously help you in understanding rhythm. However in the beginning it will actually hurt you while learning partner dancing, because you’ll want to fall into old habits of doing everything on your own without having to worry about anyone else’s balance or control. Females will have a problem with trying to submit to their partner’s lead, and leaders will feel constrained and frustrated while mastering the basics. Most of them “cheat” thru the basics because of impatience.

Any thoughts?

[salsachinita]

There is some truth in this statement........in a sense that an experienced dancer form another form of dancing is likely to bring with them the existing muscle memories (which might NOT be beneficial to salsa) as well as a certain 'pride' from having already achieved some accomplishment.

In the beginning for salsa, the more open ('blank') you are, the easier it is; even if the progress seems painfully slow at first. It is much harder having to 'un-learn' something first, IMHO.

On the other hand, having had dance experience means better body control & co-ordination, which are great helps.

So I guess it really depends on the individuals....?

[peachexploration]

......In the beginning for salsa, the more open ('blank') you are, the easier it is; even if the progress seems painfully slow at first. It is much harder having to 'un-learn' something first, IMHO.

On the other hand, having had dance experience means better body control & co-ordination, which are great helps.

So I guess it really depends on the individuals....?

Or the dance style. I've heard quite a few people say that in order to do Mambo, it is better to have taken some Jazz classes. Anyone else heard this one?

[salsachinita]

I guess Jazz helps a lot with shines :? ......?

I know that Jazz would also help LA style with some of the flashier moves, too.......

:oops: My Jazz experience is so minimal that I havn't really benefitted from it........