Enrolling in a course of private ballroom dance lessons is the fastest way to learn how to dance.  That’s because the lessons are customized to you and your specific abilities, dreams, and talents.  However, for the relationship to be successful, the instructor and student have to be compatible.

When you take private ballroom dance lessons, there are 9 things you should expect.

1. Your teacher shows up on time and is prepared for the lesson.

Of course, an instructor who doesn’t respect your time and investment is a red-flag.

2. A friendly warm-up dance will help you relax so you can enjoy your dance time.

On the other hand, jumping immediately into complicated steps or choreography is stressful.

3. Review, review, review.

The only way to become a better dancer is to develop muscle memory. With it the movements become automatic. Therefore, you’ve got to practice them a lot. So, if you’re not getting enough repetition on your lessons, be sure to ask for more.

4. Friendly encouragement from your teacher makes a big difference.

He or she must show confidence in your ability to pick up new moves and techniques. Also, any seasoned instructor knows how to gently make corrections. You should never be afraid to try something new. If your teachers make you nervous or afraid, they may not be the right fit for you.

5. Communication is important. Hopefully, your teacher is never at a loss for words.

A gifted ballroom dance teacher has the ability to say the same thing in different ways. Then, if you’re having trouble with something, your instructor can rephrase it.

Avoid an instructor who repeats the same thing over and over expecting you to suddenly ‘get it’. Read a post about Einstein’s Parable of Quantum Insanity for an interesting take on such behavior.

There are a few more things to know about your private ballroom dance lessons.

6. Learning to dance is about more than taking private dance lessons.

Because you’re joining the ballroom dance community, you’ll appreciate it when your partner introduces you to others. If this is the case, you’ll never be shy or alone in group classes, dance parties, or dance clubs.

Stay away from an instructor who keeps you to himself. Sharing you with other teachers and students is important for your overall comfort during your lessons.

7. Super-good hygiene is the mark of a considerate teacher.

Clean clothes, shoes, and fresh breath are characteristics of a caring dance partner. If you’re not seeing that, it’s time to move on.

8. Your teacher is a good dancer.

You’ll want a teacher who can demonstrate the steps and techniques you’re learning. After all, they’re presenting themselves as experts at their craft. You have a right to study with a well-prepared instructor. If that’s not happening, maybe you should trade in your dancing shoes for some walking shoes and hit the trail.

9. Your private ballroom dance lessons make you feel good.

Going for a lesson will never feel like a chore when you’re at the right studio with the best instructor for you. If you’re making excuses to miss lessons, group classes, and dance parties, it’s not too late to make a move.

Ballroom dance teachers, this Dance Safari post is for you.