---
title: 1 What is Stretch%3F
description: 
published: true
date: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z
tags: Blues
editor: markdown
dateCreated: 2026-04-28T08:02:00.567Z
---

<div style="width: 100%; max-width: 1400px; margin: 0;">
<div style="position: relative; width: 100%; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden;">
<iframe src="https://video.terbits.xyz/player.html?src=videos/Bluesrooms/Essential-Skills/Stretch-and-Frame/1_What%20is%20Stretch%253F.mp4" style="position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; border: 0;" allowfullscreen allow="autoplay; fullscreen"></iframe>
</div>
</div>

## FOCUS 
- This lesson introduces the concept of stretch in partner dancing, using elastic bands as a demonstration tool to show how two bodies move away from each other to add dynamics without pulling.
## TIP & TRICKS:
- Use a scale of zero to five to measure stretch intensity, starting relaxed at zero and increasing as you move apart.
- Maintain your frame to control the stretch and avoid losing connection with your arms to your body.
- Imagine elastic attached belly button to belly button to focus the stretch through the center rather than just the arms.
- Practice without elastic bands by maintaining a good palm-to-palm connection and the same feeling in the arms.
- Wait for a specific stretch level (e.g., one, two, three) before moving to develop sensitivity and reaction.
- Avoid pulling; instead, let the arms be part of the elastic band and relax them to allow natural stretch.

##REMEMBER
- Stretch is about two bodies moving away from each other, not increasing muscle tone or pulling.
- Use stretch to add dynamics, spice, or flavor to dancing, with different levels for musical or dramatic effects.
- Keep shoulders down and frame connected to ensure the stretch is controlled and effective.
- Start each movement at zero stretch to avoid accidentally maintaining tension in the arms.
- Everyone has a different preference for stretch levels, so experiment to find what feels good.
- The stretch should come from the center of the body, not just the arms, for proper technique.
