I’m not that confident, should I stick to learning only one style of dance?

For many of us, starting to learn to dance can be quite daunting. Let alone contemplating learning more than one style of dance.

Again, as with most decisions relating to learning to dance, we need to have an understanding of what we want to achieve with our dance. Are you looking at learning a routine for a competition, or simply want to be a good well rounded social dancer?

If your preference is to solely learn to dance using group classes, then you are probably better off sticking to one style, as learning this way takes much longer to perfect. If you plan on learning with a mix of private and group classes, then it is really advantageous to learn more than one style.

A mix of styles help you learn faster

But its too much we hear you say! It may surprise you but there are little things that you do in one dance style, will actually end up helping you in another. A great example is students who struggle with the under arm turn in the Rumba.

If they are learning the Waltz, the foot positions are exactly the same, so there is nothing new there in terms of the feet, it is simply a timing change from SQQ to 1-2-3. In many instances a student struggles less with the under arm turn in the Waltz, so when they get it down pat there, they can go an apply it again in the Rumba and all of a sudden, they can now do the step proficiently.

Don’t let your lessons become a chore

Some days are simply not as good as others. The last thing you want to do is lock yourself into a 50 minute lesson with one style of dance and nothing to break the monotony, especially if you have struggling with an element.

Having trouble working out those crossover breaks in the Cha Cha? Don’t keep flogging a dead horse. Move onto some Rumba and sooth it out! You might even find those crossover breaks from the Rumba might actually help those in the Cha Cha.

You want to have fun, right?

If your goal is to be a good rounded social dancer, chances are, if you go to the pub and want to dance, they’re not going to be playing the same music all night. Have a few styles up your sleeve so you can have a great time no matter the occasion.

A good selection to start with Rumba, Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, Waltz and Fox Trot. These styles will allow you to dance to most styles of music out there, whether it’s a friend’s wedding or a corporate function.

But I’m not really sure what I want to do yet

At William Maslin Dance Studios, we understand that it can be hard to make a decision about something that you don’t really know much about. That’s why we offer you a complimentary first lesson. It allows you to give it a try, get a feel for dancing and understand your natural ability better with some guidance.

Our programs are also personalised to meet your needs. There is no one size fits all approach. If you only want to learn some Waltz and Tango – that’s fine with us. You’ll still get all of the benefits that a student learning more dance styles get.

Start off with at least two styles and build from there

If you are a little bit worried about taking on too many dance styles, just start with two. You can always build up from there. What are you waiting for? Book your trial lesson today.