Dance is a phenomenal hobby that engages you physically, emotionally, and mentally. There are countless health benefits with some studies proposing dance as one of the best exercises to combat depression while others were able to demonstrate significant positive outcomes for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
While dance has many benefits, it can also be a very intimidating activity to try– especially as an adult. This FAQ hopes to help alleviate some of that intimidation. If you don’t see your question below, feel free to email Hannah, she’d love to help introduce you to dance!
Nope! Unless a class or workshop explicitly requires a partner, you are invited to attend alone. Most instructors encourage partners to rotate throughout a lesson and it is common to dance with many people at a social dance.
If you have a partner and prefer not to rotate, ask the instructor- most will allow you to stay with your partner upon request.
Dance shoes (Swayd or Fuegos are both very popular options) do exist and are very helpful if you’re looking to dance regularly but they’re expensive, especially if you are just trying dance for the first time! Consider smooth-soled shoes or dance socks.
Deodorant.
As for clothes, wear anything you feel comfortable moving in!
So many that it’s hard to answer briefly! For a brand-new dancer, it can be helpful to think about dance in a few broad groups: individual dances such as line dancing; partner dances (ballroom, Latin, country, and swing); and group dances like contra, square, and round dancing.
There’s plenty of overlap between those categories, and each contains many different styles. Let’s Dance Spokane/CDA tries to support all of them, although you’ll currently find more partner-dance classes on the calendar. Locally, you can find everything from country and ballroom to Latin, swing, nightclub styles, line dancing, and more.
If you want to start off on the right foot (pun absolutely intended), try a beginner group class or connect with a local instructor. Many social dances include a lesson beforehand, which gives you a great opportunity to learn a few basics and immediately practice them afterward.
Some dance styles may click faster for you than others, and the instructor can make just as much difference as the style. Don’t be afraid to try different dances, instructors, studios, and communities until you find something that feels like you. Nobody starts out knowing what they’re doing!
Not at all! Classes span ages and abilities. Beginners are expected to be beginners.
Social dances often start with a group lesson. Afterward, the music is turned on and the dancing begins! People ask each other to dance, you are welcome to agree or decline. Many people even just socialize– which is also completely acceptable!
Please note: teaching is not acceptable on the dance floor or at socials in general. Do not feel obligated to give or receive unsolicited advice.
A simple “would you like to dance?” is completely acceptable. And “no, thank you” is a complete answer.
Typically, you only dance with someone one song in a row but you are welcome to ask them to dance again later!
In partner dancing, there are two roles: lead and follow. The lead is traditionally the masculine role while following is traditionally considered the feminine although it is acceptable to dance either parts (or both).
The lead is in charge of initiating movement and maintaining timing while the follow reacts to the lead and maintains connection. The roles are distinct, complimentary and require different skills.
Ready to try it? Check out our calendar page for friendly classes and socials! Or browse the instructor directory to find someone who can help you get started.