Ekaterina Leonova Reveals Secrets and Strategies from Let’s Dance Win

Anna Maria, Germany - Ekaterina Leonova, the charismatic star of “Let’s Dance,” has once again captured the spotlight, this time with heartfelt insights into her latest championship victory. Winning the 18th season alongside her partner Diego Pooth, the 21-year-old dancer, Leonova has established herself as a formidable presence on the dance floor at just 38 years old. As die-hard fans know, this isn’t her first rodeo—she boasts three previous wins from 2017 to 2019, and the recent victory has only added to her impressive track record. In a recent Instagram Q&A, Leonova shared some intriguing behind-the-scenes revelations about the show, which many viewers might not be privy to.

Among the more surprising nuggets, Leonova clarified that dancers are unable to keep the gorgeous costumes crafted for them throughout the competition. She expressed her gratitude to designer Katia Convents, whose exquisite outfits have adorned “Let’s Dance” contestants since its inception 19 years ago. Convents, known for handcrafting each piece, has navigated the challenges of sourcing beautiful fabrics, a skill that shows in the stunning designs seen on stage. While there are no confirmed details regarding a new season, insiders suggest that fans may be able to catch another series of “Let’s Dance” in 2026.

Training Methods That Shine

However, it’s not all glitz and glamour. This season, Leonova faced her challenges. After a less-than-stellar performance in 2022 with partner Bastian Bielendorfer, she returned motivated and determined to win again. She has taken to implementing some unique training methods with 2023 partner Timon Krause, who is gaining momentum in the competition. Recently, Timon even scored just two points shy of the perennial favorite, Anna Ermakova, during a special “Boys vs. Girls” round—all under Leonova’s watchful eye. A striking element of her coaching approach involves encouraging Timon to take midday naps to sharpen his focus. It might sound unusual for such an intense competition, but as she explains, when Timon’s eyes roll back during practice, it indicates he’s not absorbing the information. A quick power nap seems to do the trick.

Even with these adjustments, Leonova’s determination to push through obstacles—like her injury from a lift attempt—demonstrates her dedication to both her partner and the pursuit of excellence in dance. Beyond the dance floor, Leonova is also making waves with the promotion of her new album “Cowboy Carter,” and she recently performed in London, bringing her talents beyond traditional dance.

Beyond Dance: The Dancer’s World

Fans of “Let’s Dance” are not just looking at the television screen; many are eager to immerse themselves in the dance community. Events like the Celebrity Conventions offer dance enthusiasts a chance to participate firsthand. Registration for these well-structured conventions is open through local dance studios and online, with multiple workshop levels catering to different age groups ranging from three years old to teacher divisions. Each participant receives a Celebrity Access Pass, which is essential for attending workshops and competitions.

The convention’s diverse range of classes is a hotspot for aspiring dancers, providing an excellent opportunity for engagement with talented instructors. While the access passes come with detailed guidelines, it’s essential for participants to check in early—either Friday evening or Saturday morning—to secure their passes. With so much creativity and passion sparking within these dance conventions, it’s little wonder they’ve become a favored destination for budding dancers and their supporters.

As the worlds of competitive dance and dance education collide, one thing is for sure: whether on the stage of “Let’s Dance” or among fellow dance enthusiasts at a convention, the artistry of dance continues to thrive and inspire countless individuals across the globe.