Suggestions for Beginners

What questions do you have before your first dance class?  These 10 suggestions can help you relax and get the most out of your dance classes.

1.     Remember that everyone in the class is a beginner just like you.  You don’t have to know anything, just be a “sponge” and soak up whatever information you can. Have a sense of humor and allow yourself to make mistakes.

2.     Leather-soled shoes are best.  Rubber soles (like running shoes) can stick to the floor and make dancing harder and possibly injure your knees.  Ladies, avoid backless shoes. Flip flops aren’t good for ballroom dancing at all.

3.     Wear comfortable clothing.

4.     Dancing improves your health, posture, social skills and mood.  It’s a positive hobby.

5.     Learning new skills takes time and repetition.  Everyone learns at different speeds so relax and keep practicing.

6.     Keep breathing.  Sounds like a no-brainer right?  But sometimes when we are concentrating hard and may be a little nervous, we hold our breath.  Our brains and muscles need the oxygen to work better so take a deep breath and relax.

7.     You’ll be in close proximity to others so arrive at class clean and fresh.  Brush your teeth before class or have a breath mint.  Wash your hands before and after class.  Avoid strong perfumes, colognes or hand lotions.  Many people have allergies or sensitivities to scents.

8.      There’s no such thing as a stupid question. If you are wondering about something then you can be sure others are too.  So don’t hesitate to ask questions, everyone will learn from your questions.

9.     Be patient with yourself and others.  Resist the urge to instruct your partner. We improve faster when we work on our own dancing and leave the instructing to the teacher.

10. Have Fun!!!