A Lesson in Ballroom Dance Etiquette - Part 2

PERSONAL HYGIENEodorous, use of foot spray and insoles might be a
Dancing is by its very nature a close contact sportgood idea. If you're not sure ask a trusted friend.
and therefore sometimes requires more explicit8. Keep the application of hand lotion and scents to a
instructions than in day to day situations. Here areminimum. Many people have allergies or sensitivities to
some helpful hints in this area:the chemicals found in these products.
1. Brush your teeth, bathe, wear antiperspirant..9. If you do choose to use hand lotion, be aware of
2. If you perspire a lot, bring a small towel to dry offhow much you use, and do not wipe extra off on
between dances and/or wear an extra undershirt.someone else's hands without ensuring they would
(Do not wipe perspiration from your brow orlike it.
anywhere else and offer the same to dance with. IfAn Extra Note For Special Events:
this is absolutely necessary, consider using handWith the studio, you will be encouraged to attend
sanitizer as a courtesy to your partner.)many semi-formal or formal events outside of the
3. Do not use other people's sweat towels.studio. These events, as would be expected, revolve
4. Wear freshly laundered clothes.around a great chance to get outside of the studio
5. Use a tissue to dispose of chewing gum.and use the social dance skills you have been learning
6. It is generally considered in poor taste and poorhere. As the dancing is the focus at these events,
hygiene to massage or groom one's feet in public. Ifyou should pay attention to the amount of alcohol
this is absolutely unavoidable consider immediatelythat is being consumed at dinner. Ballroom dancing on
using hand sanitizer or washing your hands -a social floor is a lot like driving, and is a challenging
particularly before asking someone to dance.activity after having that one glass of wine too
7. Walking bare foot in a public place is generally notmany. Remember that you are asking fellow students
socially acceptable. Perhaps this would be even moreand teachers to dance, and the experience might not
applicable at a dance studio considering the odorousbe a pleasant one if too much alcohol has been
nature of dancer's feet. If your feet are particularlyconsumed during dinner.