Class & Social Dance Tips

Partner dancing whether it be in classes or at a social dance is great fun, a great way to meet new people and also good for mental and physical health. Sometimes though we are so keen to get the moves right and enjoy all dancing has to offer that we forget, some of the basic things that make partner dancing so much fun and inclusive for everyone.

Because of that we have put together some social dance and class tips we think are important whether it is your first class/dance or so many that you have lost count

 

Class & Social Dance Tips For Everyone.

Always be polite to everyone you dance with, a smile helps ease any nerves.

It is great when our Intermediates help out in beginner's classes, but if you do, please remember that most beginners are very nervous so sometimes what you think is helpful advice can make someone new feel like they aren't doing the moves right. So unless asked, sometimes it is better just to try and help with your lead/follow.

It is also important not to start teaching new beginner's whilst the teacher is teaching as they could be missing crucial teaching points or the move ‘round one’ call.

Remember dancing is most fun when you are relaxed and enjoying the music, not always because of how many moves you do. So if you are dancing with someone you have not danced with before at a social dance, try dancing simple moves such as First Move, Jockey and SBS Charleston etc so you can get used to how each other dances and how much lead and follow is needed until you find your connection. Once you are comfortable then maybe add another move here or there. Relaxed and comfortable will always be better than wild and uncomfortable.

If you are practising in between classes or at a social dance, it is fine for leaders or followers to ask someone to dance and equally a polite no thank you is also fine and should not be taken personally.

You don't always need to dance every move you can remember one after the other, see what moves your partner likes and what they don't like. Take a pause by doing Jive arms or pause steps.

If you do want to try some more complicated moves it is fine to verbally call the move to give your partner a heads up (and also the chance for them to say they don't remember that one).

Variations on moves are great fun, but a good tip is when doing Charleston variations for example, repeat the steps a few times so that your partner can see and then join in, nothing worse than stopping once your partner has just started. Equally don't keep doing a move if clearly it is not working between you.

Don't tell your partner they are doing the move wrong or give feedback on how they could improve unless asked, as dancing is meant to be fun and this can add extra pressure to your partner.

When the dance floor is busy, remember to look out for each other to avoid any bumps and bruises. If there is less room on the dance floor then keep your moves, kicks and steps smaller. The Jockey is designed especially for these situations to dance whilst you wait for some space to open up.

We believe Coolmoves social dances and classes should be a friendly safe space for all, so if you are ever unsure of something feel free to ask your teachers, one of the helpers or contact us direct and we will do our best to answer your questions.

You can see our full Safe Space Code of Conduct here: https://coolmovesdance.blogspot.com/p/code-of-conduct.html


Jive classes should be fun & friendly for everyone

Inappropriate contact is not social dancing

Vanity is a fast track to dancing on your own

Enjoy the music & look after your partner when you are dancing

 

Don’t forget your deodorant, especially in the summer

Always be polite

Not a mistake, just a variation

Clean hands are a must as they are your connection

Inclusivity for everyone

No unwanted advice, only when asked

Grip lightly when leading and following


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