Sample Policy: Air Steps Not Permitted

Use this policy when air steps are not appropriate for your event due to venue constraints, insurance limitations, participant skill levels, or safety concerns.

This policy framework is designed for events where air steps are not permitted anywhere on the premises. This approach prioritizes accessibility, safety, and inclusivity for all participants regardless of experience level.

General Policy Statement

No Air Steps Permitted

• Air steps are not permitted anywhere at this event
• This includes all performance areas, competitions, showcases, and social floors
• All dancing must keep both dancers' feet on the ground at all times
• No exceptions will be made for any participants or performances

Definition of Prohibited Activities

• Any movement where one or both dancers' feet leave the floor
• Lifting, throwing, or aerial maneuvers of any kind
• Deep dips that could be mistaken for air steps preparation
• Any partnering that involves supporting a dancer's full body weight off the ground

Rationale for This Policy

Common Reasons for No-Air-Steps Policy

• Venue Safety: Low ceilings, hard floors, or limited space
• Insurance Requirements: Policy limitations or liability concerns
• Beginner-Friendly Environment: Ensuring all participants feel welcome and safe
• Equipment Limitations: Lack of appropriate safety equipment or personnel
• Event Focus: Emphasizing ground-based dance techniques and creativity
• Inclusive Dancing: Accommodating dancers of all ages, abilities, and experience levels

Pre-Event Communication

Registration and Marketing Materials

• Clearly state the no-air-steps policy in all event materials and registration
• Include the rationale (venue safety, insurance, beginner-friendly, etc.)
• Emphasize the positive aspects of ground-based creative dancing
• Require acknowledgment and agreement to policy during registration

Advance Communication

• Send policy reminders in pre-event emails
• Post policy information on event social media
• Include policy in any event programs or handouts
• Prepare staff to answer questions about the policy

Event Day Implementation

Opening Announcements

• Clearly announce the no-air-steps policy at the beginning of the event
• Explain the reasoning in a positive, welcoming manner
• Emphasize what IS encouraged: creative ground-based dancing
• Make announcement before each major activity (competitions, jams, etc.)

Signage and Visual Reminders

• Post visible signage about the policy at event entrances
• Place reminder signs near dance floors if needed
• Include policy in any printed event programs
• Use consistent, clear, and friendly language

What's Still Encouraged

Creative Ground-Based Dancing

• Dynamic partner dancing with both feet remaining on the floor
• Creative moves that don't involve lifting or aerial movement
• Expressive dancing within ground-based parameters
• Complex partnering that maintains floor contact
• Innovative use of levels, momentum, and connection

Performance Opportunities

• Showcases featuring creative ground-based choreography
• Competitions judged on musicality, connection, and creativity
• Jam circles celebrating diverse movement styles
• Workshops focusing on advanced ground-based techniques

Enforcement

Progressive Response

1. First instance: Immediate but friendly intervention and policy reminder
2. Any subsequent attempts: Temporary removal from dance floor
3. Continued violations: Removal from event without refund

Staff Response Protocol

• Intervene quickly but respectfully
• Assume positive intent—most violations are accidental
• Redirect energy toward creative ground-based alternatives
• Document repeated violations for potential removal decisions

Participant Responsibilities

All Participants Must

• Understand and agree to the no-air-steps policy
• Keep both feet on the ground during all dancing
• Not attempt any lifting or aerial movements
• Understand that violations may result in removal from the event
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all

Encouraging Positive Alternatives

• Explore creative possibilities within ground-based dancing
• Focus on musicality, connection, and artistic expression
• Support other dancers in finding alternatives to air steps
• Embrace the inclusive nature of the event

Handling Questions and Concerns

Common Questions

• "Why no air steps?" - Explain your specific rationale (safety, venue, inclusivity, etc.)
• "Can we do small lifts?" - "No, all movements must keep both dancers' feet on the floor"
• "What about dips?" - "Dips are fine as long as the flyer's feet stay on the ground"
• "This limits creativity" - "We're excited to see creative ground-based dancing instead!"

Staff Training

• Train all staff on policy details and enforcement procedures
• Practice responding to questions and concerns
• Emphasize positive, welcoming enforcement approach
• Ensure consistent messaging across all staff members

Emergency Protocols

• Stop music immediately for any injury
• Provide first aid and call emergency services if needed
• Clear the floor to allow proper medical response
• Document all incidents for insurance and future safety improvements
• Resume activities only when safe to do so

Organizer Responsibilities

• Clearly communicate the policy before, during, and throughout the event
• Train all staff on policy enforcement
• Intervene quickly and respectfully when violations occur
• Maintain appropriate insurance coverage for ground-based dancing activities
• Create programming that celebrates ground-based creativity
• Be prepared to explain the rationale behind the policy

Implementation Notes

Positive Framing: Present this policy as an opportunity for inclusive, creative dancing rather than just a restriction.

Consistency is Key: Enforce the policy equally for all participants, regardless of skill level or status in the community.

Legal Consultation: Consider consulting with legal counsel and insurance providers when developing your final event policies.

Community Building: Use this policy as an opportunity to build a welcoming, inclusive dance community.

Alternative Programming: Consider offering workshops or activities that specifically celebrate ground-based creativity and technique.