Dancing

We recommend dancing on your own before committing to a class, especially if dancing for fun.

Just find some great music, turn it up and move your body in a way that feels good.

However, if you are looking for technical guidance, a group or 1:1 class could be considered.

If you’re seeking a more personalised and challenging practice with tailored instructions or routines, then a private class might be right up your alley!

Search private dance classes in your chosen dance style, e.g. ballroom dancing, in your area and organise a trial with one that suits your needs.

A group class comes a close second and is great if you want to nail a more classical style or master some technical skills with motivation, connection, support and guidance from other people.

Search dance studios near you, and organise a trial with the one that suits you.

You can turn on the music and start dancing whenever and wherever you want.

However, if you want to learn a particular routine, then streaming an online class or downloading a dancing app is the quickest and easiest way to squeeze a workout in at home.

Most dance schools will offer private lessons. You may need to travel to a studio, however an online 1:1 dance class can easily be accessed from your home.

Search your favourite dance style and look for a class near you.

You will need to travel to the studio, however dance classes are readily available in most areas.

This is a zero-cost activity. Find some music and get grooving.

But if you want to work on some technique or improve your style then there are plenty of online options. Learn-to-dance apps are between $10-$30 p/m, however YouTube offers free dancing videos that can easily be streamed at home.

Hiring a private instructor is a great option, and will cost between $80-$150 p/h.

Attending a guided class IRL will cost between $15-$30 per class.

If you are dancing for fun at home, choose whatever footwear suits your flooring. And this might just mean kicking your shoes off.

Equipment will be provided by the studio for the 1:1 option if doing a class in person, though shoes will need to be supplied at your own cost.

However, if you are doing a 1:1 class at home, your instructor can recommend required footwear.

Equipment will be provided by the studio, though shoes will need to be supplied at your own cost.

Shoes will depend on the dance style:

- Ballet ($20-$30)

- Tap ($46-$65)

- Jazz ($45-$55)

Some styles do not require shoes at all, so we recommend checking before booking your class.

If you prefer the privacy of dancing alone, then a self-led practice will provide this for you. But perhaps you have willing participants at home who are happy to jump into an impromptu groove with you.

A private 1:1 class with an instructor means that you will be dancing on your own, however, that personal 1:1 practice may help to create a social connection with your instructor.

Dancing with an instructor and in a group class can be lots of fun. You should feel a sense of belonging and connection that you wouldn’t get on your own.

- Dancing at home will be fairly safe, however, it will be up to you to pay attention to your surroundings and your body.

- If you are following an online guided session you will need to make your own assessment of whether advanced steps are suitable for you.

- A private instructor will provide instant feedback on form and technique for a safer practice.

- A private session is tailored specifically to you, so your progress will improve at a greater rate than if on your own or in a group setting.

- It is part of the instructor's role to catch form and technique errors, however class sizes may not always allow for this.

- Advanced steps or techniques should be suggested during the routine to build on your current skill levels.

Find a room with enough space around you to dance if you need it.

You could even dance outside if you want.

If practising at a studio, your instructor will ensure you have the space and privacy to practice correctly.

If at home, make sure you can see and hear your instructor clearly. We recommend finding a place with a safe surface and room to move.

Studio sizes will be suitable for dancers to move with little to no interference from other class members and optimal privacy from those outside the class.

You can dance anytime. Take advantage of all the moments when some great music is playing.

Dance instructors offer flexibility, however you will still have to choose from particular days and times available.

Class days and times are pre-scheduled so you may have to hunt around for a class and time that suits you.

Simply pull on your dancing shoes (or take them off), turn up the music and start to move.

Otherwise, if you want to follow a routine, whip out your phone (or device of choice), choose a routine that you like and get started.

Is this a virtual session?

Pull on your dancing shoes, whip out your phone (or device of choice), and get started.

Doing it privately in a studio?

Consider:

- Driving to and from the studio

- How long it will take to pay and discuss any needs with the instructor.

Consider:

- Driving to and from the studio

- How long it will take to pay and discuss any needs with the instructor

- How long it will take to grab any props, pull on the dancing shoes, and settle in.

You can dance for as long or as little as you like.

Simply stream a class or search your learn-to-dance app for a routine that suits how much time you have available.

A private dance class usually runs for between 45 to 90 minutes depending on the instructor and their session plan.

Most classes run for between 45 to 90 minutes.

Dancing on your own means you can perfect your unique moves.

It will make you smarter! Learning choreography can improve your memory, making you less likely to forget where you put your keys.

It will make you happier because dancing badly is sure to make you and anyone watching laugh out loud.