Some things never go out of style.  Take ballroom dancing, for instance.  Although watching competitions and performances are worldwide passions, there are some misconceptions about it.  Hence, my list of bullshit facts about ballroom dancing that everyone thinks are true.

Here are some alternative facts about ballroom dancing:

Ballroom dancing is only for the rich and famous.

With all the different ways you can learn to dance, the truth is you can spend as much or as little as you like. Choose free or inexpensive online classes and in-person lessons at clubs with live bands. In addition, many community centered clubs like the Y or local Women’s Clubs offer group lessons. You could buy a series of classes. Just don’t miss any or you might fall behind. Of course, ballroom dance studios have been around for decades and offer personalized instruction. However, you will pay more for these customized services.

That style of dancing is too classy for a schlep like me.

If you have an idea that you aren’t classy enough to ballroom dance, you’ve got it all wrong. Keep in mind that it’s about much more than Foxtrots and Waltzes. Other dances and styles are Swing and Lindy Hop, Latin Club dancing, Argentine Tango, and Country & Western. So, while it can be fancy, it can also be down and dirty and just plain fun. It’s up to you.

On the other hand, I’ve had students who were a little rough around the edges take up social dancing as a hobby because it made them feel more posh.

Only talented dancers need apply.

If you feel uncomfortable when you’re dancing because you think you’re not good enough, forget it! You’re not alone. Some people just get the wrong idea when they see others dance. It might seem like they’re more talented but, rest assured, they started just like you. With time and effort, anyone can learn to hold their own on the dance floor.

No partner? No dancing for you!

Not true. Sure, some people do have regular partners that they dance and practice with, but it’s not required. In fact, when you go to group classes, most instructors will rotate the partners so you get used to dancing with lots of different people. Keep in mind, one of the best things about being a part of the ballroom dance community is meeting people and making new friends.

I have 3 words for you…stuffy, boring, old-fashioned.

Stuffy: Ballroom dancers are rarely pompous and smug. They are usually fun-loving folks who like to get up and shake what their mama gave ’em. Boring: You’re in for some new and exciting experiences when you’re on the dance floor. You’re gonna learn something about yourself. It’s never a bore to indulge your creative side and you may kinda enjoy showing it off. Old-fashioned: Not for a minute. Ballroom dancing is constantly evolving. The true fact about ballroom dancing, is that today many new dances and steps have worked their way into our studios and our hearts.

I heard that it’s difficult and takes too long to learn.

For the most part, the degree of difficulty is similar to learning any new sport or even a new language. Certainly, it takes effort and practice, but people do it every day. You can do it, too.

Where the heck am I gonna use ballroom dancing?

There are lots of places for you to dance. The problem is, you don’t know where they are because you don’t dance. Think about it, if you didn’t know how to bowl, would you go to a bowling alley? Do you go to a tennis court if you don’t play tennis? No, of course not.

If there’s music, there’s an opportunity for dancing. For example, weddings, cruises, parties, night clubs, dance studios, vacations, concerts, and even the little tavern down the road. At the height of the pandemic, whole neighborhoods were playing music and having dance parties in their driveways.

To sum it all up, there’s misinformation in the minds of many. That’s the reason I’m happy to get the true facts about ballroom dancing out to you. Believe me, the benefits of ballroom dancing far outweigh the cost in time and money. It’s a great way to get moving, be more social, get in the best shape of your life, feel happy, and so much more. Here’s a Dance Safari post that encourages you to take a chance, “Have a Better Life with Dance – Get Started Today“.