Whether you’re learning some new moves for the first dance at your wedding or hoping to drop a few pounds before swimsuit season arrives, your first dance lesson can be intimidating.
Don’t let anxiety and trepidation win. Knowing what to expect at your lesson can help you focus and be ready to hit the dance floor. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, most lessons are 45-60 minutes long and they all start with a stretching routine to get you ready to move. The instructor will tell you about the first dance you are learning and show you how it’s done. Then it will be time for you to get your toes tapping. Don’t worry if you have trouble mastering the dance right away. With patience and practice you’ll be tripping the light fantastic in no time.
Fred Astaire Dance Studios recommends taking steps to prepare for your first lesson to ensure you make the most of your time in the studio.
Wear the Right Clothes. Make comfort a top priority. Save the tight leotards and feathery costumes for another day. Dress in loose-fitting clothes that won’t hamper movement. It’s likely you will work up a sweat at your dance lesson, so donning light, breathable fabrics is your best bet.
Focus on Footwear. Wear comfortable shoes that provide adequate support. If sneakers feel too clunky, consider wearing a shoe with a low heel. Ballet heels offer flexibility and are designed to slide without slipping to reduce the chance of injury.
Gather Some Supplies. Fred Astaire Dance Studios recommends bringing a small, exercise towel and refillable water bottle to your lesson. Staying hydrated will help you keep your energy level up and improve your concentration. Some of our students also bring a small notebook to take notes on dance moves so they can practice at home.
Be On Time. Your dance lesson only lasts about an hour. Showing up on time will ensure you make the most of your lesson. Arriving late can disrupt the class and be a distraction for your fellow students. If you miss the pre-lesson stretch, your chances of pulling a muscle or spraining your ankle are higher.
Have Fun. Remember, the best way to learn to dance is to have fun. Our dance instructors don’t expect you to be experts at your first lesson and they know it will take time and practice to learn the steps. Be patient, keep smiling, and enjoy your time at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. If you get frustrated after your first lesson, don’t give up. Remind yourself that practice makes perfect.
If you need to give your self-confidence a boost, take a look at these epic fails by experts.
In this clip, a German dancing duo take a spill at a competition while performing the quick step.
Check out this compilation of some of the worst moments on “Dancing With the Stars.”
Even the legend, Fred Astaire made some miscuses on the dance floor. Take a look at this interview from “The Dick Cavett Show.” Astaire did not like to watch his old movies because he was critical of his performances.
Learn to Dance at FADS
Fred Astaire Dance Studios offer private and group dance lessons. We teach people the time-honored tradition of ballroom dancing in a fun, supportive environment. If you are ready to give ballroom dancing a whirl, contact your local Fred Astaire Dance Studios location to schedule your first lesson.
