Efficiency

“The quality of being able to do a task successfully, without wasting time or energy” Collins Dictionary 

Sure, it’s a concept we usually associate with manufacturing processes, fuel economy of vehicles, etc.  But what about dance?  

When you dance tango, does it require a lot of energy?  Do you feel your muscles tense up?  Is your breathing affected?  Does the tanda feel a bit like a struggle with your partner?  

If your answer is Yes to any of these questions, you may want to read on …

Observing many elegant, musical dancers of all ages at milongas, the word “Efficiency” popped into my mind.  Their movement together appeared as effortless as it was beautiful.

https://youtu.be/Q5F6OngjMNI?si=4k58kF5dXAESadbM

Sure enough, a quick Google search for “efficient tango” produced the following sound advice:

“Efficient movement in Argentine tango is defined by maximum expression with minimum effort, resulting in a relaxed, elegant, and powerful dance

It involves removing unnecessary muscle tension, allowing the body to flow and communicate clearly with a partner. 

Core Principles of Efficient Tango

• The Power of Walking: As tango is 90% walking, mastering the "tango walk" is essential for efficiency, technique, and elegance.
• Axis and Balance: Maintaining a solid, personal axis between movements ensures stability, prevents losing balance, and allows for quick, controlled changes of direction.
• The "Gap" Between Steps: The pause between steps is where the greatest communication and musicality occur.
• Spiral Dynamics: Movement travels through the entire body in a spiral, connecting weight transfers rather than isolating movements.
• Center-Initiated Movement: Pivots and movements should be initiated from the center of the chest to maintain full-body alignment.

 Techniques for Improving Efficiency

• Relax Unneeded Muscles: Focus energy only on the necessary muscles, allowing the rest of the body to remain relaxed.
• Grounding: Work with gravity to feel grounded, reducing the need for effortful movements.
• Slowing Down: Practicing at a slower speed increases body consciousness, balance, and allows for better weight transfer.
• 4 Fundamental Movements: All tango is built from 3 steps (forward/side/back) and a pivot. 

Key Differences in Efficient Movement

• Mindset: "Being" in the dance is more important than simply "doing" steps.
• Energy Management: Efficient dancers use less energy by optimizing their movement rather than using brute strength.
• Connection: A flexible embrace (switching between close and open) allows for greater creativity and comfort. 

By focusing on these principles, dancers can achieve a more comfortable, expressive, and enjoyable tango experience, both for themselves and their partners. 

PP