Dance Lesson Tips

(and a secret most experienced dancers know but don't talk about)

Submitted by SC

When watching other dancers, even the best digital camera or digital video camera cannot capture the feeling of what it's like to do this for yourself. Taking dance lessons can be a physically, emotionally and socially rewarding experience. Whether your idea of good dancing is Hip Hop from today or Swing Dance or Lindy Hop, (or a combination) whether you live in New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, or even Maui Hawaii, there is sure to be a school or club near you that offers instruction in whatever suits your fancy. This article presents some basic tips to get you started and address some of the more common concerns you may have.

1. If you have a partner or friend see if you get them to go with you. Except for Tap, Line, and free form Dance, dancing is a partnered activity. Choose someone you're physically comfortable with and won't mind spending a night a week with for the length of the course. Remember, it's a cooperative effort. You and your partner should be more like the horses in a team than the horses in a race. This can be a great way for couples both old and new to spend more time together, or a good getting acquainted activity.

2. Wear comfortable clothing. Despite what aerobics and music videos might have you believe, dancing does not generally take place in either a skintight leotard or an elaborate costume. Most dancing is done in everyday street clothes or at least close enough to it. Whether you're a size 0 or a bit into plus size, clothing should most importantly be comfortable: neither too loose nor too tight. Shoes should be good fitting and relaxed, with the exception of ballroom dancing or ballet, which generally require more specialized footwear. You want to avoid things that will fly around, particularly if you'll be doing any sort of rapid spinning. Wear whatever feels right and pay attention to what everyone else wears so you can adjust as necessary.

3. Put your heart into it. Dancing isn't something you should do halfheartedly. It's not like dog training where you're learning a conditioned response. (Well you are learning some conditioned responses like frame, pressure with your hands and arms, posture, etc..) You're learning how to move, how to feel, how to express yourself. Show up to every session interested and involved. If you don't understand a concept - ask. Most people do not continue with dancing (and a lot of other things) because they are too concerned with looking good and don't want to look like they don't know in front of other people. Here's the secret: Every good dancer didn't know how to dance at one time. The ones who are still dancing and are dancing well were willing to look silly at one time or another. The best dancers are still willing to. They know that they can always learn something new and that they will mess up from time to time.

You will get out of it what you put into it. Looking up or trying to learn from an online encyclopedia or textbook or even a video won't give you the subtle information that a live person can. Stay engaged. Be there every class and try to make new friends. Let your guard down. Dancing can be incredibly rewarding. It offers the potential for physical release, social contact and a great de-stressor and offers an escape from the everyday.