The Art of the Strut
Walking is more than just locomotion; it's a powerful form of non-verbal communication that reveals much about our inner state. On the high-stakes environment
of a fashion runway, a single misstep can carry significant weight, making the way a model carries themselves absolutely crucial. Experts like Mandy Lieveld, a seasoned runway coach, dedicate themselves to refining this skill, working with individuals from seasoned professionals to those new to the spotlight. Her aim is to sculpt gaits that project confidence, moving beyond hesitant steps to a powerful, deliberate march. This transformation is essential for brands like Michael Kors, Versace, and Bottega Veneta, where the presentation is as vital as the apparel. The ability to transition from an uncertain shuffle to a commanding stride is a skill that can be learned and honed, empowering individuals to make a memorable impression with every movement.
Finding Your Confident Stride
Transforming your walk often begins with addressing fundamental posture issues that can impede confidence and grace. For instance, the sensation of 'bending under gravity' or a noticeable hunch can be significantly improved with targeted coaching. Lieveld’s approach emphasizes opening the chest, creating an expansive feeling as if greeting the world with sunshine. Her core philosophy revolves around cultivating 'CNS' qualities: confident, natural, and strong. These are the very attributes that fashion industry professionals seek. The process involves releasing tension, particularly in the shoulders, and fostering a sense of ease. Even for those who feel their natural gait is less than ideal, like a 'Groucho Marx walk' or a 'slouching thud,' dedicated practice and the right techniques can lead to a remarkable metamorphosis, turning an awkward clomp into a poised and purposeful stride, as exemplified by those who have benefited from such specialized training.
The Coach's Methodology
Mandy Lieveld's journey to becoming a sought-after walking coach is rooted in her extensive background in dance and a profound understanding of psychology. Initially entering the modeling world, she observed a gap in formal training for the physical demands of the runway. Her foundation in ballet and modern jazz at a dance academy provided her with an intrinsic understanding of poise and body control. A personal health challenge at 21, dealing with myasthenia gravis, underscored the importance of pursuing passions. This led her to study psychology at the University of Amsterdam, a discipline she found directly applicable to coaching models who face constant scrutiny and rejection. This unique blend of physical discipline and psychological insight allows her to address not only the mechanics of walking but also the mental fortitude required to project confidence and resilience, ensuring her students embody the 'CNS' qualities sought after in the industry.
Techniques for Impactful Movement
Mastering a runway-worthy walk involves a toolbox of specific techniques and mindful practices. One crucial tip involves how one imagines their foot striking the ground, moving away from a harsh 'stamping' motion to a softer 'splash, splash, splash' – akin to stepping in a puddle, suggesting fluid energy rather than brute force. The 'core is the engine of your walk,' a mantra that encourages tightening this central area for enhanced stability, especially when navigating challenging footwear like heels. This contraction provides a sense of groundedness without restricting breathing or conversation. Lieveld also employs creative aids, such as using an umbrella behind the back to encourage chest opening and improve posture, similar to techniques used in equestrian arts. For the facial expression, the 'Blue Steel' look is achieved by visualizing laser beams from the eyes, conveying an intense, knowing gaze that captivates an audience. These varied strategies equip individuals with practical methods to refine their physical presence and exude unwavering confidence.
Beyond the Runway
The principles of confident walking extend far beyond the fashion industry, impacting our everyday lives and perceptions. Slouching, whether a conscious teenage act to disappear or an unconscious adult habit of avoiding interaction, can communicate a lack of self-assurance. Conversely, an upright posture and a purposeful stride can project approachability and strength. This is echoed in evolutionary psychology, where dominant individuals, like an alpha male ape, exhibit a more contained and deliberate gait, signaling confidence and authority. Learning to walk with poise, as taught by coaches like Lieveld, can fundamentally alter how others perceive us and how we feel about ourselves. Even after a stumble or a fall, the most potent advice is to rise and continue, reinforcing the idea that resilience and continued effort are key to maintaining a confident presence in all aspects of life.
