“Just the FAQs, Ma’am.” Because there are so many questions, here are some basic things that you need to know about ballroom dance lessons.

When I meet someone and tell them I teach ballroom dancing, the never-fail response is, “Oh, I’ve always wanted to learn to dance.  It looks like so much fun!”    Indeed it is.

What are some reasons to learn about ballroom dance?

• Increased confidence in social situations that involve music, such as parties, cruises, weddings, or clubs.
• Relaxed interactions with the opposite sex for some good, clean fun.
• A stress-free way to meet people and make new friends.  It’s for sure, you’ll never be lonely when you’re surrounded by others who love dancing as much as you do!
• Engage in exercise that can be either low or high impact based on your needs and level of fitness.  For example, dancing in a show or competition, and simple social dancing, use very different amounts of energy.
• Enjoy a creative outlet that uses your body as your instrument. This lets expressive people feel more confident when they dance.
• Dancing together is a great way to make that special someone happy.  Who, you ask? It could be a hubby, wifey, girlfriend, boyfriend, or a potential partner.
• Some people just want to be ready for an event that will have music and dancing.  Most adults want to know at least a little about social dancing before they let it all hang out.

For these reasons and others, many people are curious about dance lessons.  I, for one, encourage you to learn more. As a matter of fact, it’s a game-changer, I promise!

Let’s look at some of the FAQs about ballroom dance.  

“What should I wear?”

There are no strict rules about what a beginner should wear for their ballroom dance lessons. The most important thing is to be comfortable. But, keep in mind it isn’t a workout so you wouldn’t wear gym clothes.

“Do I need special shoes?”

No, you don’t need dance shoes to start. However, do wear a shoe with a leather or hard rubber sole.  Also, ladies, you’ll move more smoothly across the floor if you avoid platforms and slides.

“Can I bring my spouse?”

Yes, of course.  In fact, a private lesson is one teacher working with a single student or a couple.  It’s up to you.

“I don’t have a partner.  Is that a problem?”

No partner? No problem! In truth, you will have a partner – your dance teacher!

“What dance should I learn?”

You’ll be surprised to know that you can learn three or four dances just as easily as one.   I recommend a slow dance, a fast dance, a Latin dance, and maybe something with turns for the lady. That’ll give you a good start. 

Learning a few different dances is important. When you think about it, do you really want to sit out the other dances because you only know one?

Speaking of couples and choosing dances, check out this Dance Safari post, “What is the Best Dance for a Couple to Learn?“

“How long will it take me to learn about ballroom dance?”

That’s a good question. We’ll be able to tell you how long it’ll take after you’ve had a few lessons. It depends on how quickly you pick up and how much you remember from lesson to lesson.

Also, we need to know how you’ll use your lessons? Are you keeping them close together (especially in the beginning) or spreading them out? In addition, attending group classes and dance parties will speed up the learning process.

“What kind of people take lessons?”

All kinds of people want to learn about ballroom dance.  It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, tall or short, physically gifted or klutzy. If you’re looking for a good time, go to a ballroom dance studio and take some lessons.

“My child wants to learn ballroom dancing.  What’s a good age to start?”

A good time to start lessons is when your child expresses an interest in ballroom dancing. Does he or she know right and left? Are they attentive and able to take instruction?  If so, check out a few studios that have programs for kids. You’ll know when you find the right one.

“How much will it cost to learn about ballroom dance?”

Your first lesson will be free or a special introductory rate.  After that, it depends on how you choose to get started.  Most studios will work with you to fit your budget.

Finally…

Hopefully, your questions have been answered and the idea of taking ballroom dance lessons seems pretty good to you. So, what are you waiting for? Here’s a quote from Eva Young, “To think too long about doing a thing often becomes it’s undoing.”