10 THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR FIRST BALLROOM DANCE LESSON

Attending your very first dance lesson can be incredibly intimidating. You may be thinking, “what if I look silly?”, “what if I can’t keep up?”, “what if I fall on my face or step on my partner’s toes?” etc. When you don’t know what to expect, it’s pretty normal to anticipate the worst. However, the Professionals at M&N Dance Studio are here to prepare you for a fun, comfortable, and enjoyable experience. Below are a few things you should know before your first ballroom dance lesson.

1. WHAT TO WEAR
Like any event, there’s always the fear of being over/underdressed. For a dance class, it’s appropriate to wear something comfortable and easy to move in. Ideally, not jeans.

As far as shoes go, make sure they’re clean and comfy. One of the essential assets in our dance studio is the Dance Floor, which we carefully selected for our student’s best benefits, being the best in the Industry. Shoes with thin, smooth soles and short heels are great for dancing. Open toes, flip-flops, and rubber soles aren’t recommended.

2. WHAT TO BRING
All you need for your first Ballroom dance class is yourself and an open mind. If you’d like to bring water, that is also ok. Here at M&N Dance, we have water and coffee available. You may also want to get a hand towel just in case. If you are preparing your first dance for a wedding, bringing the shoes you will wear and the selected song will be a great idea.

3. SPEAK UP
As dance instructors, we are here to create a relaxing, nonjudgmental, fun environment for you to learn how to dance. If you have a question or feel discomfort during the lesson, feel free to talk to your Instructor. We will not force anything upon you, and we won’t push you beyond what you wish. But we will teach and train you to achieve your goals (Social dancing, wedding
coming up, impress or surprise your partner, competitive dancing, physical activity, etc.). We want this to be a fun, enriching experience for you, and we’ll do anything to make it that way.

4. KEEP AN OPEN MIND
The first dance lesson can feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’ve never had a dance lesson in your life. However, at M&N Dance, you’ll be surrounded by people who want you to be the best you can be. We’ll help show you the key ingredients to creating a perfect experience. If you are negative and say, “I will never be able to dance like that” or “I can’t do this step”, you will never be able to. Instead, stay positive and be open to learning new steps.

5. MOVE THOSE FEET!
It is essential in any dance class to participate. That’s the absolute best way to learn! A step may feel awkward at first if it is new to you, but you’re in a safe space, and we want to see you participating and having fun.

6. DON’T BE SHY, BE SOCIAL
Ballroom dancing is a social dance form, meaning, in Group classes, you will be dancing with people! To help you learn better, your instructor may dance with you too. Don’t be afraid of dancing with an instructor or having them correct you. How else do you grow and develop as a student? In a group class setting, most likely, you’ll be asked to trade partners and dance with someone new. It is all part of the experience, and that’s how you get better at leading and
following. So don’t be afraid of practicing with a new partner. You might even make a new friend!

7. SHAKE IT OFF
When learning a new skill, it takes time and practice to perfect. This is only your first lesson and more likely won’t be flawless, but that’s OK! Try not to get frustrated or upset and enjoy yourself.

Take a break, have some water or wine, and try again. Your instructor won’t give you any material they don’t believe you can handle.

8. PRIVATE VS GROUP
Group classes tend to be a larger group of people all learning from one teacher. These sizable dance lessons give you a little taste of different dance styles. It’s also a great way to socialize and meet new people. If you want to get more in-depth in a dance style or are preparing for an event, the one-on-one private dance lessons are best for you. In a private class, your instructor
can personalize the experience based on your dance levels, interest, and goals. You can also learn at your own pace. If you are unsure which route to take, talk to our instructors or try both to decide what fits you best.

9. BE AWARE OF YOUR SURROUNDINGS
Since partner dancing is social, try to be conscious of your surroundings. Be aware of your partner and be patient with their progress. Also, if you’re attending a group class, be mindful of your instructor and the people around you. Being a responsible and respectful dancer will make the class run smoothly and create a friendly learning environment for everyone.

10. HAVE FUN!
Need we say more?