Both dancers are balanced leaning forward in their axis, so if one partner is removed, the other would fall. The lean is preserved throughout the dance, maintaining constant contact. Lead is achieved by using upper body and breathing combination techniques—no hands are used when leading.

The Apilado style of tango can be deceiving for those unfamiliar with it, as the movements are very subtle and not necessarily visually striking. This style is much more complex than it appears and more difficult to learn.

You tango for your partner, not for the public. Music is the basis for Apilado, and familiarity with the 23 dance orchestras from the golden age of tango is essential. Only tango dance orchestra music is used—no tango listening music, stage music, or new tango arrangements by popular performers in South America are played. Apilado dancers are obliged to make a clear distinction with the tango dance music.

To learn the Apilado style of tango, and to know and understand the music, it is recommended that you practice two to three times a week. Followers typically need 1½ to 2 years, and leaders about 2½ years, to become proficient.