Home > Learning Center > Choosing a Dance Studio

Choosing a Dance Studio

Choosing a Dance Studio Before you choose a dance studio, you need to think about what style of dance is right for you. Your level of ability, whether you will be learning as a couple or on your own and what you hope to get out of dance will all influence your decision. Most dance studios will only work with a few specific styles of dance, so understanding how each style of dance can benefit you is essential before signing up for a class.

Ballet

It is a common misconception that at some point in your life you become too old to take up ballet. This is simply not the case. Although ballet is one of the hardest forms of dance to perfect and can take a considerable amount of time to master steps, there is no reason why people of any age cannot begin to learn ballet. Many studios cater for all ages and may divide the lessons up according to age. If you go to a ballet studio you will see young students, professional women who are there to relieve stress and older women taking the class to stay flexible. There is no cut off point for learning ballet. If you have always wanted to learn this art form, you should contact a local ballet studio and talk to an instructor to discuss what you hope to get out of the lessons. Do you want to relieve stress? Increase flexibility? Gain strength? Or do you want to completely dedicate yourself and try to be the best you can possibly be? You will find that the instructor will be very welcoming and help you decide what class is going to be best for you.

Couples dancing

Ballroom dancing has seen somewhat of a revival over recent years and many couples are keen to learn the style. It not only increases your energy and physical ability, it also adds intimacy and puts a spark into a relationship. Ballroom also gives you the chance to compete, which at first may unnerve you, but once your level of ability increases, you will jump at the chance.

Ballroom is great for all ages and abilities, but if you are looking for something slightly more energetic, you should look into salsa. Elements of salsa are usually integrated into ballroom, but pure salsa is much more intense. This is for people who love the idea of dancing with a partner but are also looking for a calorie-burning workout.

If you love the sound of these styles of dance but do not have a partner, don't let that stop you! Many people go to salsa unaccompanied and the instructor will pair them together before a session. This will give you the opportunity to dance with both experienced and inexperienced dancers and meet new people as well.

Dancing for fitness

All forms of dance are going to make you feel and look better, but some are more intensive than others. Dance aerobics is a style that combines the intensity of aerobics with the rhythmical aspects of dance. The aim of this style of dance is to work on your cardio, improve the function of your heart and lungs and lower cholesterol, stress and anxiety. While all styles of dance do this to some degree, none is an intense as dance aerobics.

If you want to begin working with dance aerobics, you should talk to the instructor of the class and maybe observe a class before you sign up. Most high-intensity dance workouts are divided into levels of ability and sometimes age group, so it is important that you do not over or underestimate your ability and find the group that you feel most comfortable with.

Whatever style of dance or studio you choose, you will need to know the appropriate attire to wear. Many dance studios do not have a dress code, so you may be unsure what to wear. If you are, then call the studio before your first lesson and ask the instructor what type of clothing they recommend.

When it comes time for your first lesson, be sure to arrive early and hydrated. Try not to be too shy and introduce yourself to your fellow students. For your first lesson it is a good idea to place yourself in the middle of the room, this way there is always someone to look at and someone to follow if you become lost with the steps. Be courteous to the other students and your instructor. Everyone in the dance class wants to improve and be the best they can. You will find that everyone will be very supportive and encouraging of each other and before you know it, your dancing will improve and friendships will blossom.

Click here to view your cart