Did you know that there are over 50,000 dance studios operating in the United States? With that in mind, you’re bound to find the perfect dance studio to fit your beginner lesson needs. If you’re located in the Nashville area, World Champion Productions may be the dance destination for you.

For many beginners, signing up for a dance class can initially seem fairly terrifying. However, don’t fear! There are ways to mentally prepare that will ensure you have a good time. Before your first dance lesson there are a few things you might want to know so you feel the most at ease.

Here are the top things to know so you can mentally prepare for your first dance lesson:

  • Remember, You’re a Beginner
  • You Can Start Lessons on Your Own
  • You Won’t be Alone
  • Wear the Right Clothes
  • Take it Slow
  • Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

Remember, You’re a Beginner

For many, the thing that deters them most from signing up for a beginner dance class is nerves! However, there’s no reason to be afraid! If you’re taking a beginner-level class, you’re definitely not the only one who’s nervous, so try to remind yourself that it’s okay to be a beginner. In fact, you’ll probably find yourself amongst other beginners who feel just as you do!

A good way to mentally prepare for a dance lesson is to remind yourself that these lessons are called beginner classes for a reason. No one will expect you to know anything about ballroom dancing yet, and the rest of the class is probably just as intimidated as you are. So relax and get ready to invest in a fun new hobby!

You Can Start Lessons on Your Own

When mentally preparing for your first dance lesson, you may be wondering if you need to bring a partner. This fear of being unprepared can often cause a lot of newcomers stress and anxiety. However, while this is one of the most common questions new dancers have when they sign up for a ballroom dance class, the need for a partner is often not the case!

Most dance studios will never expect beginner dancers to show up with a partner for partnered dance lessons. Instead, rest assured that your instructor will be able to pair you up with your other beginner classmates and may rotate partners throughout the class.

You Won’t be Alone

Another way to mentally prepare for your first dance lesson is to remember you won’t be alone! For some, this can be a positive or a negative! As a big part of ballroom dancing can involve physical touch, you will likely be expected to interact 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. If physical contact is not something you will enjoy, dance lessons might not be the best choice for you! But no worries, if you decide you’d still like to give lessons a try, be sure to remind yourself that physical contact will occur during your beginner class.

Tip: Each dance style has 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.

Sign up for a FREE ballroom dance lesson with World Champion Productions!

Wear the Right Clothes

For some people, just putting on gym clothes can make them feel ready to go to the gym. That being said, the same can apply for your first dance lesson! Dancing is a very physical activity that involves moving your body for long periods of time. Typically, dance classes will keep you moving around the room pretty frequently. You’ll likely go through a guided warm up routine as well.

In order to be the most prepared you can be for your first class, you’ll want to try wearing workout gear, and assess as 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 dance you’re learning. Be sure to wear stretchy clothes that are easy to move in, and won’t cause you to trip and fall.

Depending on the type of dance lessons you fall in love with, 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.

Take It Slow

While new dancers are often eager to learn the dance steps and have it all down on day one, as a beginner you won’t be expected to know the dance moves right away. This is why you’re taking a beginner class!

When it comes to learning a dance, the steps aren’t what make a dancer good. Come to your first class with a good attitude and you’ll set yourself up for success! In your first class you’ll likely have to learn the foundational steps such as connection, body movement, and foot placement— as well as focus on posture and core engagement. Remember that your instructors are not trying to slow you down or say that they don’t believe in you. Be sure to take things slow and learn all you need to know to become a better, well-rounded dancer.

Don’t Forget to Have Fun!

A first time ballroom dance class can be scary for any beginner. However, you must remind yourself that you’re doing this for you, so have fun! Don’t forget to try and enjoy yourself during your first beginner level class. If you feel like dance is not for you, don’t be afraid to give another studio or a different type of class a second try. Your dance class instructors want to see you enjoy yourself and help you succeed, so try to remind yourself that you have the support you will need.

Trying new things can be very scary, but so fun! Taking up ballroom dancing is a great way to jumpstart your new dance hobby! Contact World Champion Productions today and learn more about our various dance lesson opportunities.