The Golden Rules of Dance Class

A Dance class is no different from any other type of5. Keep your attention focused on your instructor.
class. To ensure that you walk away with theMissing one small portion of a step or pattern could
greatest amount of information possible, just followbe the difference between a successful or
these simple rules. Whether you are attending aunsuccessful learning opportunity.
group class or a private lesson it is important to6. Wear suitable clothing and shoes. Clothing should be
remember the "Golden Rules."comfortable and nonrestrictive, keeping in mind that
1. Respect your instructor. It was your choice to payyou will likely be warm while dancing. Dance shoes
them for their knowledge and expertise, so be surewith either suede or leather soles should be worn.
to treat them with respect and admiration.Clunky rubber bottomed shoes will not work. They
2. Show up to your class on time. Make sure thatmake dancing very difficult and can lead to injury.
you arrive with enough time to get settled, change7. Allow the teacher to teach. Do not start instructing
into your dance shoes and be ready to go on time.the partner you are dancing with even if they are
Many private lessons are actually only 50 minutes longstruggling and you think you might be able to do a
and it is likely that your instructor has another lessonbetter job. Do not openly challenge an instructor's
following yours; if you are late it will cut into yourexpertise.
class time. It is not the instructor's obligation to make8. Come to class with an open mind and spirit. Try to
up for your tardiness. If it is a group class you willkeep complaints and whining to yourself. There is
disrupt the entire class.nothing more aggravating than a person that whines
3. Be considerate of everyone in the class. They areor complains throughout an entire workshop, if this is
all there to learn. Everyone learns at a different pace,you, good luck finding someone to dance with
in a different way. Use any extra explanation time toafterwards.
practice the move you are learning or to quietly takeRemember, learning to dance can be difficult, but
notes. Keep talking and giggling to a minimum.with dedication and practice you will find that the
4. Keep questions to a minimum and allow thetime and effort you have dedicated to the sport will
instructor the courtesy of fully demonstrating afar out weigh any of the pains that you encounter
move or pattern before jumping in with questions orduring the process. By simply following the above
comments. Do not compare one instructor torules, you are assured to have a great time and reap
another. Be willing to receive what you are learning,the benefits of the class or workshop. Learning to
retain what you like and graciously discard what youdance will add zest to your life, body, mind and soul.
do not.