AN INTRODUCTION TO THE WORLD OF DANCE

This does not mean you have to be an expert, but it does mean that you should know the basic rules which will enable you to dance with confidence. Dancing can be placed into three categories: (i) social dancing, (ii) dancing for medal tests and (iii) competitive dancing or DanceSport. Years ago only a few people realised there were rules in dancing as in other sports but now a standard technique is taught at most of the schools throughout the world.

There are still many people who believe they can never learn to dance. This is not true, for if you can walk you can learn to dance. You do not need to be athletic or know anything about music and there is no age limit. The most difficult part of learning to dance is to find the courage to attend your first dance class. At first your fear is that you will look foolish when you make mistakes. Don’t worry, even top dancers went through the trauma of the first lesson.

Some people prepare themselves for their first class lesson by taking private tuition to get the feel of what its all about. After the first class don’t expect to remember everything you were taught when you attend the next class. You will find that after about four classes you will actually be able to dance some simple steps without looking at your feet. At this point you know you’re on your way to becoming a dancer.

Casual wear is in order for most dance classes. However as most classes are held in the evening, sweat shirts and some shorts are not really suitable. Ladies should avoid tight skirts as it will impede their movement.

SHOES are the most important part of your dress. A pair of lightweight, pliable, well-fitting shoes will help you get the best results. Platform soles, very high or stiletto heels, joggers or crepe rubber soles will give you a problem. Whatever shoes you wear, make sure they are comfortable.

Simple methods are used to get people who have never danced into the basics of moving the correct foot at the right time. It’s just like learning to drive a car - at the beginning there are so many things to think of at the same time - but after the first hour or so things start to fall into place.

At your first class you will probably think that you are not keeping up with what’s being taught. Before you decide to give it away check and establish how long the other people have been coming to the classes. It is a proven fact that after learning the first couple of dances they become easier. You then start to realise that some steps in one dance are the same as steps in other dances. The more dances you learn the easier they are to remember. Be prepared to persevere. If you do the ultimate result will be well worth the effort.