In this article, I have answered some of the most common questions women ask regarding the Dance class label.
Question #1 – What do I wear to a dance class?
What to wear to a dance class is one of the most common questions regarding proper dance class etiquette, regardless of gender. For a dance studio, it’s often best to wear something comfortable, like sweatpants or casual jeans. Dresses are also fine to wear. Casual clothing is usually fine, but if your classes are at a club, it’s always a good idea to ask if they have a dress code, and if so, what it is.
The right dance shoes are always the best option, of course, but many beginner salsa classes will accept most shoes. If you want to wear high heels, make sure they have enough ankle support and that you feel comfortable in them. Often, comfortable, casual shoes with a smooth sole are a much better choice for a dance studio. Save the high heels for a club. Speaking of clubbing, dance shoes are always the best option, even for clubbing (although some clubs may guarantee other shoes if the floor is terrible and you don’t want to damage your shoes).
Question #2 – Do I need a dance partner?
In my experience, very rarely do you need a dance partner. In fact, unless a class flyer or announcement specifically says you need a dance partner, I’d assume you don’t. In the hundreds of classes I have attended, I have come across only one or two classes (which happened to be in Louisiana) where you needed to have a dance partner to sign up for the dance course. Of course, if you want to be absolutely sure, you can always check with the instructor beforehand.
Question #3 – What should I do if I get associated with a creepy guy?
Ok, this question isn’t necessarily commonly asked, but I’ve heard it from a few women. So I decided to tackle this problem head on. First of all, keep in mind that dance classes, especially salsa, attract people from a variety of backgrounds. It often has a wide variety of people of all ages, genders, religions, races, socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. Always be sure to consider and try to be understanding of the differences of others. Also, not all men have great social skills. They often mean nothing, even if they seem uncomfortable.
That being said, if someone makes you feel uncomfortable, for example, touches you in a way that makes you uncomfortable, but you don’t think they are blatantly trying to offend you or trying to be a jerk, your first defense is to politely address the issue. head on. Immediately and politely wave your hand and say to the gentleman, “Will you hold me here instead? I’d feel more comfortable,” and then thank him once he does. Sometimes we men just need a little proper direction and help from you. Other times, stronger action is necessary.
If he acts like a jerk and disrespects you, politely tell him to stop doing whatever is making you uncomfortable. If you don’t want to cause a scene in the middle of a class, for example, it’s best to just talk to your instructor about the incident in private after class. Your instructor must be happy to hear your concern and you are doing him a great favor. It is best to let your instructor deal with the incident. After all, no instructor would want to lose students to some creepy guy.
Question #4 – Is it really okay to ask questions?
Yes, most instructors welcome questions (at least they should). In fact, by asking questions, you are likely also voicing questions or concerns that others in the class have but are simply too afraid to ask. Of course, if you constantly find yourself being the only one asking questions, it may be time to avoid them, but most instructors love to have their students ask questions and be interactive. So express your thoughts.
Question #5 – Should I help my partner if he can’t move?
This answer might surprise you, no you shouldn’t. First of all, realize that as much as you are better than him, your partner did not come to class to learn from you. Of course, if it’s just a quick fix that makes the move more comfortable for you, feel free to do so or tell them. But whenever you come to a dance class, your priority should always be to work on yourself, not your partner. For example, if you master a pattern faster than your partner, start working on your style, posture, connection, foot placement, hand placement, smearing, body movement, or any other area of your dance, rather than to help him. If you have a question, you know that by raising your hand you can ask the instructor a question if you want to. Teaching your partner while your class is in progress could be taken as an insult, not only by your partner, but by your instructor as well.
And there you have it, 5 common questions and answers for a proper Dance class label.
