5 Tips and Tricks for Taking Class with David Slaney

Taking class with David Slaney in heels is about more than just steps—it’s about confidence, control, and artistry. His teaching blends technique with performance, helping dancers not only look clean but feel powerful. To help you thrive in his class, here are five of David’s top tips for training in heels with safety, precision, and flair.

1. Stretch Before and After You Dance

Heels demand extra strength and stability, so your body needs to be prepared. David stresses the importance of stretching before class to warm up and after class to cool down. This keeps your muscles flexible, protects your joints, and helps you dance in heels safely for the long run.

2. Have Fun

Confidence in heels starts with enjoying yourself. David reminds dancers not to overthink it—when you let go and have fun, your energy reads stronger, and your performance feels effortless. Joy is the best accessory you can bring to class.

3. Turn Out and Lengthen

Clean lines are everything in heels. David encourages dancers to turn out their feet and fully straighten behind the knees. These details elongate your legs, sharpen your shapes, and instantly elevate your presence. Small adjustments make a big difference in how powerful your movement looks.

4. Count Your Music

Precision is key, especially when dancing in heels. David suggests practicing counts out loud—5, 6, 7, 8… and 1. This helps you stay on rhythm, sync your steps with the music, and nail choreography with clarity. Counting is a tool that builds confidence and consistency.

5. Perform Every Time

Heels are all about performance. David pushes dancers to embody stage presence from the very first run-through. Performing full out—even in rehearsal—trains your body to commit, express, and own the space with confidence and grace.

Train With David

Step into David’s "MUTT" heels class and put these tips into action. You’ll train smarter, dance stronger, and unlock your performance power—one count at a time.

Need a warm-up first?

Start with David’s curated challenge — a set of his classes designed to help you build strength, refine your technique, and grow comfortable moving in heels before tackling the full routine. Check out the challenge here. 👈

Whether you’re finding your foundation or leveling up your stage presence, David’s guidance will push you to dance with clarity, confidence, and style.

Start training today. Try STEEZY free for 7 days and see what you can create.

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