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Tips for Beginners

I have never danced before, but I would like to start taking classes. I'm a little nervous to wind up in class and not know what I'm doing. Are there any resources for people just starting out?

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Permalink Reply by Alice Shipley on February 5, 2009 at 12:20
Don't ever be scared to start dancing! You should just find a class that is specifically targeted for beginners, that way you will be surrounded by people like you who just want to have fun and you can all learn together!
Permalink Reply by Betty Gillies on February 5, 2009 at 12:23
There are some places online you could look at, like http://dance.lovetoknow.com/Category:Dance_Instruction.

You can't learn as much as you will in class, but you could learn some of the terminology or a few basic steps so you felt more confident going to class!
Permalink Reply by Dottie on June 16, 2009 at 20:22
Just have fun. I teach a beginners' line dancing class at a senior center and I just tell my students to have fun -- there are no mistakes, only variations. We laugh so much so I told my group that I should rename my class to Line Dancing and laughter 101 for beginners. So they laugh again---we just have fun. My eldest student is 84 (I thought she was maybe in her 70s) and even though I would say she doesn't master all the steps, she has improved and she has never misses my class. She is just great! So go for it!
Dottie
Permalink Reply by Claire Gaines on June 20, 2009 at 18:08
Hi, Debbie ....Start by looking for a dance studio in your community. If there are none, look for a local "Y" or community center or a local public school or college continuing education program. You can take group lessons or one-to-one lessons if you think you might like a little extra help and support. I always learn better when I have the teacher's full attention. In many studios today, new students are given an opportunity to try out different teachers to find out who they feel best with! Don't be afraid to ask! We all have to start somewhere, Debbie! So gather your courage and go! And I hope you'll write back and let us know how you made out!
Permalink Reply by Judson W. Crawford on June 21, 2009 at 17:05
Will this be on the Independence of the seas Jan.2010
Permalink Reply by Dori on June 21, 2009 at 17:42
Yes!! It will be on every ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet.... Team uniforms and everything! Lots of fun....
Permalink Reply by Christina Capri on June 30, 2009 at 15:11
I agree with Claire, just find a program near you and let loose. If you're too nervous you won't be able to express yourself and really get into the music and steps. Good luck!

Claire Gaines said:
Hi, Debbie ....Start by looking for a dance studio in your community. If there are none, look for a local "Y" or community center or a local public school or college continuing education program. You can take group lessons or one-to-one lessons if you think you might like a little extra help and support. I always learn better when I have the teacher's full attention. In many studios today, new students are given an opportunity to try out different teachers to find out who they feel best with! Don't be afraid to ask! We all have to start somewhere, Debbie! So gather your courage and go! And I hope you'll write back and let us know how you made out!
Permalink Reply by Eugene King on July 8, 2009 at 13:10
Are instructional dance videos any good?
Permalink Reply by hitchcockhill on July 8, 2009 at 13:24
For your question Eugene - Instructional videos are ok - but that won't replace dancing in a group with others and you miss out on any pointers from the instruction. You might think you're doing technique just fine from a video - but sometimes you can't really tell - so another eye on your moves helps you improve. Videos are a great place to start though if you just can't make it to a class.

Eugene King said:
Are instructional dance videos any good?
Permalink Reply by hitchcockhill on July 8, 2009 at 13:26
Debbie it can be very difficult to get out there and start something new - Lord knows moving to NYC for me was not easy - but now that I've been here a year and have been doing stuff slowly and getting acquainted - it does make things easier. What make things super easy is having someone else to go with you! Maybe through this site you can connect with someone at your similar level and the two of you can pal around to classes and various other dance outlets and then get your start together. That also brings a level of accountability so you have someone to help make sure you do take those first few steps out of your home and into the studio. I look forward to hearing a story or two from your first dance class. Please keep us posted!
Permalink Reply by Tina on July 17, 2009 at 16:12
As a beginner, you should never feel intimidated. Trained dancers spend years and years perfect their craft and realize that it takes a lot of courage for someone to even get started. Best of luck getting started! I know the joy that dance brings to my life is unlike anything else- I couldn't wish anything more for you too!
Permalink Reply by Roger Laurence on July 21, 2009 at 14:36
I just started beginner lessons, and everyone is so helpful. But I can see how it could be intimidating if I had just joined any dance lesson, as opposed to one designed specifically for seniors.

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