How the MLS Training Path Works
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Each level builds on the last — physically and cognitively
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Readiness matters more than speed
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Not everyone follows the same path (by design)
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Advancement is about capacity, not perfection
Most dancers follow one of these paths. All lead to deeper confidence and advanced training.
You don’t need to decide everything upfront — your next step becomes clearer as you train.
Find Your Starting Point
Path 1: MLS LIVE! Online Training Path
Who it’s for
New or returning dancers who want to build shuffle skills safely and progressively in a structured online environment.
Classes are small-group, technique-driven, and designed to develop coordination, directional control, stamina, and freestyle confidence over time. Many dancers repeat levels to deepen movement ownership and prepare for more advanced training.
Progression ladder
→ On-Ramp (Level 0, as needed)
→ Foundations (Level 1)
→ Low-Impact Foundations (Parallel Level 1 Track)
→ Depth & Directionals (Level 2)
→ Foundational Variations (Level 3) - COMING IN MAY 2026
→ Cutting Shapes I (Level 3) - COMING SUMMER 2026
→ Shuffle Progressions (Level 4) - COMING FALL 2026
→ Cutting Shapes II (Level 4) - COMING 2027
Path 2: Workshop Track
Who it’s for
Dancers who prefer immersive, hands-on learning in an in-person setting, or who want to accelerate early skill development through concentrated training experiences.
Workshops emphasize real-time correction, group momentum, and extended practice blocks that build strength, confidence, and directional movement awareness. This pathway often leads into online progression levels or advanced retreat opportunities.
Progression ladder
→ Level 0 Prep Session (included with Workshop registration)
→ Level 1 Workshop in SLC
→ Depth & Directionals (MLS LIVE! Online Course)
→ Shuffle Advancement Retreat
→ Foundational Variations (Level 3) - COMING IN MAY 2026 Optional
→ Cutting Shapes Prep Intensive: COMING 2027
→ Cutting Shapes Mastery Retreat: COMING 2027
Prefer to Start Free?
There's a path for that too.
You don’t have to jump straight into paid training.
If you’re brand new to shuffle — or just want to explore the style first — you can begin with my free YouTube progression.
This path will help you:
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Learn the foundational shuffle and shapes moves
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Build familiarity with common shuffle vocabulary
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Decide whether structured training is right for you
Free Progression:
→ Level 0: Fundamentals & Concepts
→ Level 1: The Foundational Five Shuffle & Shapes Moves
→ Level 2: Depth & Directionals
→ Level 3: Foundational Variations
→ Placement into structured training (as appropriate)
Placement Into Live Training (for experienced dancers)
Some dancers arrive with prior experience or strong self-directed practice.
If you’ve completed the YouTube progression and want to enter directly into:
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Level 1 Workshop, or
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Shuffle Advancement Retreat
you may request a 1-hour private placement session.
During this session, we’ll assess:
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Movement quality and control
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Directional awareness and transitions
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Capacity for fast learning and independent practice
Based on this evaluation, I’ll recommend the appropriate next step — whether that’s a workshop, retreat, or additional preparation.
Still Not Sure?
If you’re unsure where you belong, that’s normal.
If you’d like, you’re welcome to email me and tell me a little about:
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Your movement background
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What you’re hoping to work toward
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Any concerns around strength, balance, or pace
I’ll help you choose a starting point that makes sense — no pressure.