What If Your Teacher’s Style Isn't For You?

Ever taken a class and thought, "Man, this technique just doesn't feel right for my body"?

Gui and I are hanging out in Taiwan to tackle an awesome question from Emily in our Facebook group!

Emily asks: "How would you feel if a student said, 'I know you teach it this way, but I'm sticking with my own way'?"

The Short Answer? Go For It!

Honestly guys, as teachers, we are totally fine with this.

• You Know Your Body: If you found a way that keeps you safe and balanced, keep doing it!
• The "Why" Matters: It's a huge turnoff when teachers just say, "That's wrong," without explaining the mechanics.
• Safety First: The only time we'll step in and correct you is if your technique might actually hurt your knees or neck.

Style vs. Proper Technique

Gui brought up a fascinating chat he had with Alex de Carvalho. Alex says there are really only three base styles from the ground up: Traditional Zouk, Neo Zouk, and Lambada. Everything else? That's just personal expression. My "style" or Gui's "style" is just how we choose to express the dance.

Put On Their Glasses

Even if a teacher’s vibe isn't your favorite, learn from them! Are they teaching a visual shape for the stage, or a sensation for a crowded social floor? Put on their glasses and try to understand their background.

The Big Takeaway: Don't follow one teacher blindly. Grab the tools that feel good to you, and build your own unique dance.

Ever tweaked a teacher's move to fit your own body?

Let us know in the group!