Going to your first ballroom dance class can be very intimidating. There are probably a million different things running through your mind. You may be worried about looking silly, falling on your face, or keeping up with the rest of the class. When you have no idea what to expect, it is common to anticipate the absolute worst. So, to prepare for a comfortable and fun lesson, here are a few things you should know.
What to Wear
Since you have never attended a ballroom dance class, you may worry about being over or under dressed. For any type of dance class – ballroom included, wear something comfortable and loose-fitting. As for your shoes, stick to short heels and shoes with smooth soles. Avoid wearing flip-flops and open-toed shoes.
Keep an Open Mind
When you walk into your first ballroom lesson, the lesson before yours may be wrapping up, or you may see your instructor dancing. This may be overwhelming because it could cause you to think that you could never dance that way and wish that you hadn't signed up for this class. Keep in mind that your instructor has had years of dance experience, and you don't know how many lessons the group before you has had. They may be on their 5th lesson by now. So, push your negative thoughts aside, stay positive, and keep an open mind as you go into your lesson.
Be Social
Ballroom dancing is a social type of dance, as there are typically many people on the dance floor. During your lessons, unless you are taking private lessons, there will be quite a few couples in the room with you, so don't be shy. Socialize.
There may be times when your instructor comes over and dances with you. Sometimes, he or she will do this for fun, and other times, he or she will do it to correct your form. There will also be times when your dance instructor will have everyone trade partners. This is a great way for you to get better at following and/or leading.
Practice Makes Perfect
Keep in mind that this is your first lesson. There may be some people in your group that will pick up on the ballroom steps immediately, but it doesn't mean that you will, and that's okay. As with any new skill, practice makes perfect. Don't allow yourself to become upset or frustrated; just have fun! If you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed, take a break and then get back at it. To learn more, visit a website such as themonarchballroom.com.