Were you thinking about taking dance classes before the pandemic? Did you start taking classes and had your classes postponed? Well, how are you going to get back to these plans?!

Whether you’re looking to head back to class or looking to take your first class, here are 5 ways to prepare your body for some dance movement:

1 - Listen to the music! Did you want to learn bachata, salsa, merengue, well time to get into tune with the rhythms? If Latin music is new to you, this is an important part of your dance process, and here’s a link to some playlists on Spotify if you need a place to start. 

2 -Start watching videos of people just dancing in the style that you’re looking to learn. Maybe you’re a visual learner and the things you see now will allow you to capture instruction more easily when you’re in an actual class setting. 

3 - While you’re washing your hands, cooking, watching TV etc. practice shifting your weight. Shift your weight from one foot to the other. Try not to march (lifting through the knees) but instead, step from one foot to the other and make sure your knees bend alternatively. You’ll know you’re doing it right when your hips move side to side.

4- Start planning a schedule around the classes you’re going to take. If in-person, how many times a week and what days will you give 10-15 min of practice to what you learned in class. If virtual, same thing, plan a consistent schedule of watching the online class(es) weekly and separate about 10-15 min of practice.

5- Be comfortable. Dancing should be fun! Wear what makes you comfortable and use footwear with a smooth sole or socks (if you’re at home).

One more tip to get your ready is stretching. Whether its just five minutes or ten minutes, it helps to relieve the body of tension that would restrict your movements in dance.

What other tips help you get ready for you class? Let me know.

Can’t wait to see you on the dance floor!.