Competing as a swing dancer.. should I ?

Competitions. 

Competitions can be amazing and have been part of Lindy Hop history since day one. 

A few generalisations.. 

The positives:

1) It will improve the standard of dancing in a scene. People are goal orientated and competitions give you an amazing focus to work harder on your dancing. 

New aerials are worked on, stronger technique, crazier moves.. you do see a jump.

2) The anticipation and adrenalin involved with competing is super and I used to be quite competition addict. I loved the anticipation of it all. 

3) " Life is not a spectator sport."  Being involved is so much fun and the swing dancing community is a supportive and encouraging crowd. Everyone cheers you on and appreciates your courage for stepping on the floor. 

4) History. It's part of swing dancing history and Frankie Manning used to tell us all great stories about competing. 

5) A great night where individuals come from all schools, a range of dance communities and places. The cheering is amazing. 

6) It's a thrilling  spectacle and a great show case for swing dancing. Many people have been inspired to start swing dancing from being at a competition evening. 

The concerns:

1) Competitions  can create a slightly competitive environment where social dancing takes a back seat and suddenly your dancing is being judged and it can be stressful and also create some disappointment. 

2) Some dancers define themselves by their dancing so not placing can cause some disillusionment. 

3) Some can take it all too seriously.. it is after all.. just dancing!

At Swing Patrol we think that a few competitions a year are really good for the swing community and we encourage you to get involved. Placing in an event might be one aim, but just being involved should be another aim. Push yourself and have the experience of a life time. My favourite memories of the days I used to compete regularly are not of the actual competing moments but the great laughs we would have at training and the great hours of hard work dancing at rehearsals. It's a great journey, a great goal and an experience worth considering. 

The upcoming London Jitterbug Championships has events for all standard of dancers.. including two beginner events. Talk to a buddy in class and throw yourself in!

My fluff for today. 

Scottie 

London Jitterbug Championships: 

http://www.londonswingfestival.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11&Itemid=10