Teaching Without Touch: Rethinking Coaching at the Highest Level

Let the Dancer Own Their Movement

In the world of elite Latin American dance, we often talk about precision, musicality, and performance. But one of the most important elements of world-class coaching is often overlooked: how we teach — not just what we teach.

At a high level, coaching is about communication, not correction by hand. It’s about empowering the dancer — not moulding them physically. When we shift our focus from physical manipulation to thoughtful guidance, we unlock something far more lasting.

The Space to Own Their Movement

Dancers grow most when they are given the space to explore, refine, and own their movement.

Instead of stepping in to adjust a body part or reposition a line, we can guide them using:

• Clarity of language

• Imagery that resonates

• Intentional cues that align with the music and the moment

These tools invite the dancer into a deeper connection with their body and the movement they're creating.

When Touch Interrupts

Touch has traditionally played a role in teaching — and in certain learning environments, it may still have its place.
But at the elite level, unnecessary physical contact can interrupt awareness, confidence, and self-reliance.

It can:

• Disrupt balance and internal focus

• Undermine a dancer’s sense of agency

• Lead to dependency on correction instead of discovery

"Well-considered, word-based guidance allows awareness and responsibility to shine."

Honouring Tradition, Embracing Growth

This isn't about disregarding the methods of the past. It’s about allowing our teaching to evolve with dignity and purpose.

We honour tradition by holding onto excellence — and we carry that excellence forward by empowering dancers from within, not by controlling them from without.

“You can’t give a dancer feeling. You have to help them discover it.” — Walter Laird

A Thought for Fellow Coaches

To my fellow teachers, adjudicators, and mentors: let’s reflect on how we teach.

Let’s guide with consideration, speak with clarity, and lead through communication.

Because when we coach without relying on touch, we coach with respect — and that respect becomes part of the dancer’s artistry, confidence, and independence.

Let the dancer own their movement. That’s where true transformation begins.