What to Expect in a Ballroom Dance Lesson | Dance Lessons for Beginners

Did you know that there are over 20 styles of ballroom dances? If you’ve been meaning to try dance lessons, but have been unsure about the type or style, look no further! And, if you’re located in the Nashville area, World Champion Productions may be the dance destination for you.

For beginners and pros alike, ballroom dancing can be a fun way to let loose and groove to some music with partners and friends. Come into your first lesson with an open mind and heart, and you’re bound to have a good time and enjoy any style you choose. Before your first ballroom dance lesson there are a few things you might want to know so you feel the most at ease.

Here’s what you can expect in your first ballroom dance lesson:

You’re not the Only Beginner
You Will Need to Partner Up
Physical Contact Is Required
Workout Gear is Recommended
Don’t Expect to Know it All
Have Fun!

You’re not the Only Beginner

When you first walk into a ballroom dance lesson, you may feel a lot of nerves. However, there’s no need to worry! If you’re taking a beginner-level ballroom class, you’re definitely not the only beginner there. In fact, you’ll probably find yourself amongst classmates who feel just as you do!

As beginner ballroom dance lessons are considered beginner for a reason, no one will expect you to know anything about ballroom dancing yet. You’re here to learn and have fun, so relax and get ready to learn a new skill!

You Will Need to Partner Up

While you likely won’t have to bring your own partner, you may be required to partner up even during your first ballroom dance lesson. This is one of the most common questions new dancers have when they sign up for a ballroom dance class. It may even deter some people from signing up until they find a friend or significant other to join the class with them.

However, most dance studios will be able to pair you up with your other beginner classmates and may rotate partners throughout the class. Regardless of if you come to your first lesson with a friend or not, you will have to interact with other students in the ballroom dance lesson.

Physical Contact is Required

As we just discussed, a big part of ballroom dancing involves physical touch. While this might seem to go without saying, if you sign up for a partner dance class, you will have to share the floor with other dancers. If you’re uncomfortable with physical touch—especially with new people, you can always sign up for solo style lessons. However, even in those classes, your instructor may still occasionally touch you when they’re correcting your position.

Each ballroom dance style will have its own rules as to what kinds of physical contact are appropriate and normal. If you have questions about the typical types of contact, always ask the instructor before signing up.

Workout Gear is Recommended

When attending your first ballroom dance lesson, you will be expected to wear some form of workout gear. Ballroom dancing becomes a very physical activity that involves moving your body for long periods of time. In a typical ballroom dance class, you’re going to get to move around the room pretty frequently, and often will go through a guided warm up routine.

During your first class, it is recommended that you wear workout gear, and assess if you continue your lessons. In a beginner lesson a pair of sneakers that aren’t too grippy will do the trick. Ask your instructor for more details on specific footwear for the style of ballroom dance you’re learning. Try to opt for stretchy clothes that are easy to move in, and won’t cause you to trip and fall.

Pro Tip: When taking ballroom dancing lessons, you may eventually work your way up to wearing more appropriate dress shoes and clothes. However, don’t feel obligated to do so in your first lesson.

Don’t Expect to Know it All

When it comes to your first ever ballroom dance lesson, you’re probably going to be eager to learn it all on day one. However, as a beginner you will not be expected to know everything there is to know about ballroom dance.

Learning a style of ballroom dance is all about the foundational steps such as connection, body movement, and foot placement— as well as focus on posture and core engagement. So worry less about the steps and more about your body. Remember that your instructors are not trying to slow you down or stunt your learning. Be sure to take things slow and learn all you need to know to become a better, well-rounded ballroom dancer. Paying attention to these details will help you progress more quickly in the long-run.

Have Fun!

A first time ballroom dance lesson can be a scary thing to jump into. However, you’ve signed up for a reason and dancing is meant to be a good time! Don’t forget to have fun in your beginner level class, and don’t be afraid to give dance classes a second try. Your instructors want to see you enjoy yourself and help you succeed. Who knows, maybe this might be your second life calling!

Is it time for you to try a new hobby like ballroom dancing? With so many styles to choose from, ballroom dancing is a great way to try something new! Contact World Champion Productions today and learn more about our various dance lesson opportunities.