For example, we have a simple combination of two balancés (forward and back) followed by two clockwise chaînés turns. Then the pattern repeats. Coming out of the second chaînés turn I place my right foot down and as I bring my left foot up behind it my right foot slides a little along the axis of travel. Not enough to dump me on the ground, but it throws me off balance. Where is the problem?
Some random thoughts:
- Is this an error in technique? Maybe I'm too far off balance to begin with, and expecting too much traction from a floor designed to allow turns without tearing up knees?
- My shoes are canvas with split soles (Capezio Cobra). I've had them for about 5 months now. They're worn about two hours a week.
- If I brush the sole of the shoe with my hand after completing one of our combos, it comes away feeling like the shoe had picked up dust, though there's nothing to see on my hand. The shoes don't show any real sign of dirt, but they are black in color. Is this normal?
- The floor is wood and used only for dance instruction.
- We don't use rosin.
- I'm usually at the front of the room, which is an area that probably gets minimal use.
- Someone suggested dampening the suede pads on my shoes. I've tried doing this cautiously, not wanting to damage the shoe or the floor. It gives a brief increase in traction, but within a steps they're dry to the touch again and I'm back to slipping.
Any other ideas?
