Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a total newbie, taking a ballroom dance class is a great way to get some exercise, meet new people and learn some new moves. With several different styles of ballroom dance to choose from, you'll be able to find one that suits your personality and skill level.
Here are six techniques that are taught in most ballroom dance classes:
Proper Posture
Learning how to stand properly is the first lesson for ballroom dancing beginners as it sets a good foundation for all other dances. For example, in the Cha Cha, dancers should keep their knees slightly bent, frame straight, and chest out. In addition to proper posture, instructors may also go over dance etiquette such as what to do if you are asked to dance (never say no), and how to ask someone to dance (ask politely).
Basic steps
The next step in the beginner ballroom dance class is learning the basic steps with your partner. Typically, this will include learning a few basic steps from each of the five ballroom dances: waltz, foxtrot, tango, Viennese waltz, and quickstep.
Keeping balance
Balance is also taught in some dance classes so that you know how to keep your body balanced when you are dancing. This is particularly important for men in ballroom dances because they have to support the weight of their partner while performing several moves at the same time.
Leading and following
If you have ever watched a couple of dances before, then you know that one person seems to lead while the other follows. This is true in many types of partner dances, such as waltzes, tangos, and foxtrots. If you have ever tried to dance without learning how to lead or follow, then you know how frustrating it can be. A good instructor will help each partner learn their part so that they may dance together harmoniously.
Timing
Timing is crucial in any type of dancing, whether it's ballroom or hip hop and this is something that many people struggle with when they first start dancing. This is another reason why ballroom dance classes are so popular, because they teach you how to keep time with your partner while you're dancing together, so that you can transition smoothly into new steps or moves.
Waltz box turn
Once you've mastered the basic steps and are ready to move on to something more advanced, adding a waltz box turn is one option. This involves taking four steps in one direction before turning 180 degrees to do four more steps in a different direction — making a box shape on the dance floor!
Now that you know these 6 techniques, dancing with your partner is easier. These techniques will help you understand how to dance with your partner so that the two of you can look great out on the floor. Your satisfaction with the way you move together will lie a lot in what you and your partner do with your eyes, so remember all the things we've taught you here as well.