So you’ve called a studio or you’re getting ready to call a studio and you want to know what you need to know before you even step foot in the door.
I know that walking into the studio can sometimes be the hardest part of learning to dance, and the more you know before you start can make taking that first step easier.
Before I became a dance teacher I was the receptionist at my local ballroom dance studio, and I talked to a lot of students that were booking their first lessons and I answered many questions.
The following is what you need to know before your very first ballroom dance lesson.
Do I need a partner to learn a ballroom dance?
No. If you are taking a private lesson your teacher will be your partner and in a group class there are other students to dance with as well, if you are the only person without a partner in class the teacher will generally be your partner.
What type of lesson am I having?
When learning to dance in a studio there are two types of learning sessions, private or group class. A private lesson is one on one instruction, by a teacher, whether you take lessons by yourself or with a partner.
In a private lesson, your teacher will be focused on you and your specific dance training. Please note that at most studios a private lesson does not mean that you will have the whole floor or a private room.
There are usually multiple lessons going on at the same time on the same dance floor. Many people are confused when they start their lesson realizing they will be dancing around others and sharing the music as well.
A group class is one instructor with a group of people all learning the same thing, because of the group setting they won’t be able to spend much time with you if you’re struggling with the step.
What should I wear to ballroom dance lessons?
For ladies, I recommend something comfortable that allows for movement. Slacks or a flowing skirt work well.
Think about how you want to feel on the dance floor when choosing something, do you have a fun dress that makes you want to spin? That’s perfect, if you’re nervous wear something that makes you feel really good as long as you follow this advice.
Avoid long dresses, you really don’t want to wear anything longer than ankle length so you don’t catch your heel on your dress when you step.
Pencil skirts or similar tight skirts will restrict movement and watch out for skirts that ride up when you walk, you don’t want to be distracted the entire lesson by pulling your dress down.
Pro tip: NEVER dance in a tube top or other strapless article of clothing unless you have it glued to you. I have seen how terribly this can go wrong. Also, sweatpants are for sweating which is what you’ll be doing if you wear them to dance class.
If you plan on dancing with a partner be courteous and wear breathable clothing (ballroom etiquette)
For the guys, you’ve got it easier at least when it comes to clothing (Why it takes men longer to learn to dance than ladies) I would suggest slacks or trousers. Jeans can work as long as you can move in them, just make sure your studio doesn’t have a dress code first.
Do I need to have ballroom dance shoes?
No, in the beginning, I recommend a hard sole shoe for men and women. A dress shoe is an appropriate shoe for someone to wear. Ladies should avoid heels over 4 inches, at least in the beginning, trust me on this, you want to maintain your balance and not be worried about tipping over.
Everyone should avoid slip-on shoes, flip flops, and tennis shoes. Make sure that the shoe you chose stays securely on your foot. Tennis shoes are designed to grip the floor and you want to glide not stick, plus turning in running shoes can possibly injure you.
If you are one of those people who just must have all the equipment before they start, or you’re just curious about ballroom shoes check this out.
Where is the studio?
Seems like an obvious question, but many times the studio may be in a hard to find a spot, or inside of a building.
I once worked at a studio that was in an amazing location but was difficult to find from the parking lot, so make sure to ask when you call about parking and how to get to the studio if it’s not obvious.
Ladies, if you’re dragging an unwilling partner and he’s frustrated just getting in the door of the studio, then the lesson probably won’t go so well, and he won’t come back.
What time is your lesson?
Most studios have paperwork for you to fill out so it helps to be a few minutes early. Also, if the studio’s hard to find, or traffic holds you up it could eat into your lesson time. Most teachers are booked after your lesson and aren’t able to run late.
If you are running late please call the studio, it may be possible to move your lesson to a little later, or find a teacher that is available
Who Will my Teacher Be?
A lot of factors go into choosing your teacher, not just who is available (although sometimes that is the reason). When the receptionist asks you if you’ve danced before and if so what level, they want to make sure they have someone available for your dance needs.
If they ask if you have a partner, they want to know if you need to dance with your instructor, for example, a woman coming in to dance would get a male teacher and vice versa.
Do you have a special occasion coming up? Means, are you getting married, and should we put you with a teacher that specializes in wedding dances as opposed to a teacher that hates them?
How long are the ballroom dance Lessons?
This one really depends on the school that you are going to, some offer 40-minute lessons and others are 50 minutes or 55 minutes. Make sure to ask if they don’t tell you.
How much are ballroom dance lessons?
Again, this varies widely from school to school, but most have some sort of introductory package that will allow you to try a few lessons for a steep discount. Like $30 or sometimes even a free lesson!
Hopefully, I’ve answered all of your questions, still nervous? want to know what the actual lesson is going to be like? Read more for What to expect on your first ballroom dance lesson.
