The Art of the Stride
The way we walk is a profound non-verbal communicator, revealing our inner state and confidence levels to the world. For those aiming for the high-stakes
environment of a fashion runway, mastering a poised and impactful gait is paramount. This journey involves more than just putting one foot in front of the other; it's about cultivating a deliberate and powerful movement. Renowned walking coach Mandy Lieveld, a former model herself, specializes in refining these crucial physical expressions. Her expertise lies in transforming awkward, tentative steps into a decisive and commanding stride, a skill essential for brands that define high fashion. Lieveld's approach is designed to equip individuals, models and non-models alike, with the poise and assurance needed to navigate the runway with grace and authority, turning even the most challenging footwear into instruments of elegance.
From Hesitation to Poise
The path to runway-ready walking often begins with overcoming personal insecurities about one's gait. Many, like author Zoe Dubno, describe their natural walk with humorous self-deprecation, fearing it's unsuited for the polished world of fashion. Dubno, facing the prospect of walking in heels for a major fashion show, felt a surge of panic, likening her walk to that of a comedian and her heels to instruments of torture. Fortunately, the intervention of a professional coach like Lieveld can be transformative. Through targeted training, even the most unconventional gaits can be reshaped. Lieveld's methodology, as demonstrated with Dubno, successfully converted a hesitant, clunky movement into a smooth, confident stroll, proving that with the right guidance, anyone can elevate their walk and feel runway-ready.
The Coach's Methodology
Embarking on a private session with a walking coach like Mandy Lieveld involves a detailed assessment and targeted exercises. Arriving at a well-equipped rehearsal space, the initial steps focus on fundamental posture adjustments. Key instructions often include consciously opening the chest, as if embracing the surrounding light, and actively releasing tension in the shoulders. Lieveld emphasizes achieving 'CNS' qualities—confident, natural, and strong—which are highly valued by casting directors and modeling agencies. Her background, influenced by a decade of coaching and a strong foundation in dance and psychology, informs her holistic approach. This blend of physical training and understanding of the psychological aspects of confidence, particularly in the face of frequent rejection, equips clients with the resilience and self-assurance needed for a powerful presence.
Techniques for Confidence
Mastering a runway walk involves a series of practical techniques designed to enhance stability, grace, and visual impact. A core principle is engaging the 'engine' of your walk—your core muscles—to create a feeling of grounded stability, especially when wearing heels. This contraction allows for breath and conversation while maintaining balance. Lieveld uses vivid imagery, like the 'splash, splash, splash' of a foot landing, to encourage a lighter, more energetic step rather than a heavy stomp. Another effective tip involves using an object, such as an umbrella, to gently stretch the back and open the chest, promoting an upright and confident posture. Even the facial expression, the iconic 'Blue Steel,' is honed by instructing models to imagine laser beams emanating from their eyes, projecting an air of mystique and self-possession.
The Aftermath of Transformation
The culmination of dedicated walking coaching is often a dramatic visual transformation, evident in before-and-after video comparisons. Clients can observe a significant improvement in their posture, with slouching replaced by an erect and purposeful stride. This newfound confidence in movement extends even to navigating challenging footwear like high heels. The feeling of motion becomes imbued with intent, projecting a sense of power and self-assuredness. Importantly, the coaching process also prepares individuals for the inevitable stumbles or falls that can occur. The ultimate advice shared is one of resilience: even after a misstep, the key is to recover gracefully and continue forward, demonstrating an unyielding spirit that is as crucial on the runway as it is in life.
