Should You Repeat a Dance Class?

Dance is fun for everyone, but it does not always come easy for everyone. That means that plenty of people find themselves in need of some extra classes. In fact, some people may be asking themselves the question, “Should I repeat a dance class?”

It is perfectly okay to repeat a dance class.

dancers  collectiopn  aYou may feel a little awkward about the answer to that question, but rest assured you are not alone in wondering if a repeat course would benefit you. There are many potential reasons to repeat a dance class. Perhaps you simply did not catch on the first time around, and while you certainly got better, you still have much to learn before you feel secure doing the dance on your own. Or, maybe you were not able to take as many classes as you wanted, or needed the first time around, and so taking the course again would be helpful. Whatever the reason, there is no reason to feel badly about taking the course again if you want or need it. After all, our goal is to become good dancers and it is important to have a solid foundation from which to build.

Your teacher can help.

If you’re wondering whether it would be worth repeating a dance class, ask your teacher. Your teacher knows your situation, and can make the best recommendation for you. In fact, you may find that you simply need a touch more confidence, and that you’ve learned more than you initially thought. Your teacher may also suggest that you try a few private lessons, rather than taking the class again. Trust your teacher’s advice on the matter.

It could be fun.

Of course, you could repeat a dance class with no other reason that you enjoyed it. Dance classes have many benefits—exercise, social interaction, something to break up monotony, etc. If you find yourself disappointed at the thought of the class being over, consider taking it again. You may be able to take a more advanced version, or a different type of dance, too. However, if what you really want is to take the same class again, why not?

At Dance Passion Studio, we’ll happily advise you on the best course of action for you, whether it be to repeat a class, move to a higher level, or take private lessons.

Tips for Investing in Dance Shoes

Dancing is a great hobby for many because, unless you do it professionally, it doesn’t require expensive equipment investments. Of course, if you plan on doing it a great deal, it is worth some investment in classes, comfortable clothing, and good shoes. Here are some tips for investing in dance shoes.

Dance Comfortably

EV004621When you dance, you need comfort. Your feet and legs will work hard, and uncomfortable shoes will not help this. Tennis shoes, and other similar sport shoes are not a good idea, as they have soles that stick to the floor, which restricts your movement.  When dancing, you need shoes that will slide and rotate easily on the floor.

Flip-flops and sandals are not good options either, as they are likely to trip you, or fall off. Instead, you should find some comfortable, leather-soled shoes, or some shoes made specifically for dancing.

The Best Fit

For your very first pair of dance shoes, get fitted. Even if you don’t buy the first pair you try, you need an idea of the best shoe size for you. Dance shoes may not always fit like your other shoes. When you get fitted, they may feel a little strange, at first. You will break them in, however. You want the shoe to fit snugly on your foot so that your foot does not slide inside your shoes when you dance; that will cause blisters, and for ladies it can increase the chances of losing your balance, or twisting your ankle when you are turning or spinning.

Made for Dance

When you’re new to dance shoes, trust those made specifically for dance. You can get information online about the best shoes for dancing, or you can go to a local dance shop. You will want to specify what type of dancing you are doing so that you get the right type.

Ask the Experts

Of course, it is always good to ask your teacher’s advice. She or he can not only tell you about the best shoes and fit for dance in general, but for the type of dancing you are doing, too. Plus, she or he knows your level and how much it may be worth investing for you.

Ask us about investing in dance shoes for your classes with us at Dance Passion Studio.

I Have Two Left Feet

There are a few people in the world who learn a new dance easily; they seem to have a natural gift and they pick it up quickly. That is not true of many, perhaps most people. If you have two left feet as the saying goes and feel you can’t dance, do not feel discouraged. You are not the only one. Here are some tips to help you when you struggle.

Be Patient with Yourself

Couples having dancing classAt Dance Passion Studio, we teach beginner students how to dance all the time. You will be surprised at how easy it can be to learn when the dance is explained properly. You may feel an urge to push yourself out of frustration.  This is an understandable feeling.  However, you will have a much easier time learning to dance if you are patient with yourself.  Relax, take a deep breath, and have fun. After all, isn’t that why we wanted to learn to dance in the first place?  When you focus on the fun and don’t try to be perfect, the process of learning new steps can be just as enjoyable for you as dancing the steps once you have perfected them.

Try Private Lessons

In a group setting, a teacher will pace the class for everyone. While she or he may be able to take some time to work with people one-on-one, some people may find themselves in need of some extra time with a dance teacher. If you’re having trouble with a step, consider private lessons. Your teacher can use teaching methods that work better for you in a private setting and you can always join the group classes, too, and have the benefit of both settings.

Never Underestimate Practice

Practice is important for all dancers. Whatever time you may have on your own, find some to practice. For students in the group classes, we will send out links to videos of the class steps as a refresher of what you have learned. This will make it easier for you to practice your steps on your own.  In private lesson, you can video your steps to reference later, as well. It will help you improve greatly.

We want to see you succeed in your chosen dance type at Dance Passion Studio. If you have two left feet, no worries; we’ll do what we can to help so that you can enjoy the process of learning.