Do
I need a partner?
This varies according to the style of dancing:
Salsa, Merengue, Tango, Swing
No, partners are rotated during the classes
and it is rarely necessary for girls to dance
with girls. During the Club dancing, everyone
dances with everyone else.
Ballroom
& Latin American Check
with your local Dance Matrix venue. While
many go dancing as a couple, dancers without
a regular partner will also often attend and
there is usually plenty of opportunity to
change partners during mixer dances.
<< Back to top
of page |
 |
What
should I wear?
Generally,
casual, cool and comfortable are a good guide
but no trainers or flip flops! Initially, light
shoes with a non-grip sole are fine but, as
you settle down to enjoy your dancing, you'll
quickly find that professional shoes will make
a tremendous difference.
Salsa and Merengue
No trainers. Low heeled or flat shoes
with a non-grip sole are fine. Guys get rid
of the ties! Girls, skirts and crop-tops or
bodies are fine. Avoid fussy tops as it is easy
for them to get caught during turns. Avoid wearing
wrist or finger jewellery that can easily come
off in the heat of dancing. Also avoid heavy
earrings. You can dress up for weekend events.
Tango
Tango is a moody dance so dark colours
are safest. No trainers. Closed in shoes with
a non-grip sole. For girls, a high heel adds
style. You can dress up for weekend events.
Swing
No trainers. Low heeled or flat shoes
with a non-grip sole are fine. Girls look great
in full skirts but trousers are practical for
a start.
Ballroom & Latin American
Smart casual is normally the order
of the day. For the girls, a low heel shoe and
a non-grip sole and, for the guys, light shoes
with a non-grip sole. Avoid trainers, sandals
or heavy shoes.
<<
Back to top of page |
 |
What
is the age group? Am I too old?
Dancing is
for everyone and, whatever your age, you will
be welcomed and will be able to enjoy the company
of a surprisingly wide age group.
<< Back
to top of page |
Will
it be too much for me?
Dancing is great aerobic exercise.
It is no more energetic though than a brisk
walk. As you go through an introductory course,
you will find your stamina gradually building
up so don't overdo it too soon.
<<
Back to top of page |
I
have a medical condition. Will I be able to
dance?
If you have a medical condition that would
prevent you from taking a brisk walk, talk first
to your doctor or medical advisor.
If you are reasonably healthy
but use a wheelchair, you can contact the
Wheelchair Dance Association for specialist
advice and opportunities - Eileen Dwyer, 8
Redward Road, Rownhams, Southampton, SO16
8JE, United Kingdom Tel. 01703 362114
<< Back to top
of page |
 |
I've
got two left feet. Will I cope?
Make sure you book
yourself on to an introductory course at your
local Dance Matrix venue. Stick at the course
and practice as much as possible. The teachers
or dance presenters will be there to help you
through the first few weeks, which are always
the most difficult.
Try and get as much practice as possible
and you'll soon settle down to enjoy dancing
at whatever level you feel comfortable. You
don't have to be a World Champion to enjoy the
dancing, the music, the atmosphere and the company
of friends. If you need extra
help, book a personal lesson so that you can
concentrate on your individual requirements
at your own pace. If you've got the interest,
you'll get there.
<< Back to
top of page |
I
don't want people to stare at me if I make a
mistake.
It is a common misconception that everyone
is looking at you. With the greatest of respect,
spectators might take a look at "good"
dancers but will hardly be focusing their attention
on those still learning.
If they happen to glimpse
you, more often than not the reaction is one
of support as they remember that they went
through just the same process. In any case,
mistakes during a class are part of the learning
process and the FUN! Laugh it off and have
another go. You'll get there.
<< Back to
top of page |
I'm
a slow learner.
Relax. If you've joined a class
and everyone seems to be picking it up very
quickly, remember that those who pick things
up quickly often forget them just as quickly.
A slower learner often retains things for longer.
If you need extra help, book a personal lesson
so that you can concentrate on your individual
requirements at your own pace. Chat things over
with your teacher, he/she is on your side
<< Back to
top of page |
 |
I
do shift work. Is there any point in me joining
a course?
Of course. Attend the classes that you can
and supplement them with planned personal "catch-up"
lessons, which can be arranged on days and at
times convenient to your schedule and lifestyle.
Once you have completed the course, you will
be able to join in the dance events that your
schedule permits. You might even choose to have
occasional personal lessons to top up with a
new move and keep you on form.
<< Back to
top of page |
 |
|
