So, you’re planning on taking your first beginner dance class...

Congratulations on taking the first step!

Here are the 6 things you should know before walking into the studio for the first time.

1. Choose Your Outfit

Dance is about feeling good – not just looking good.

Wear something that you feel comfortable and confident in!

Test out your outfit beforehand to make sure it’s easy to move around in.

And don’t be afraid to wear your older, most-loved shoes.

Wearing a new pair of sneakers to your first class is a recipe for blisters and soreness.

‍Don't have a good pair of sneakers to start with?!

Watch this video to get some ideas on great sneakers for dance.

Just be sure to break 'em in first.

You should also tailor your outfit to match how you want to feel while learning that dance style.

Taking a beginner heels class? Wear something that makes you feel a little seductive!

Attending your first Hip Hop workshop?  

Try wearing something that makes you feel cool and laid-back.

‍Pro-Tip: Stalk the Instagram account of the studio where you’re taking class for outfit ideas, if you're still not sure what to wear.

2. Have The Right Mindset

Even if you’re walking into a dance class designed for beginners, you’re gonna be challenged by some of the movements.

After all, you’re not there to kill every move – you’re there to learn new things!

Coming to class with the right mindset is essential if you don’t want to leave feeling burnt out or frustrated.

Before class, remind yourself that there’s nothing wrong if you don’t “get” everything on the first try.

Be open and ready for feedback and ask for help whenever you need it!

If you find yourself falling behind, don’t get caught up comparing yourself to the other dancers or feeling out of place.

Nobody is judging you or trying to catch you messing up – every student is there to learn, just like you.

Focus on your own training, and it will be easier to improve.

And if you really struggle with feeling insecure while dancing, try taking classes online.

Platforms like STEEZY Studio offer beginner dance classes that you can take in a pressure-free environment – your own home!

3. Expect to Hear Lots of New Dance Terms

Have you ever watched a video of a dance class and thought the instructor was speaking in another language?

Dance is a form of visual language, so there are certain ideas that don’t exactly “translate” into familiar words.

As a result, dancers have made up their own words (and sounds!) to describe dance concepts.

Use this Dance Dictionary to brush up on common dance vocab before your class.

Bonus!

‍Watch this video before class as well, to get a blueprint for counting music like a dancer.

This will come in handy when your instructor asks you to, for example, "Move on the 5".

4. Come Prepared With Goals

You probably decided to take a dance class for a specific reason right?

Even if you just wanted to try something new and fun, it’s important to think about your intentions for taking the class in order to get the most out of it.

Then, create specific, actionable goals based on those intentions.

If your intention is to have fun, make it your goal to complete the full class without comparing yourself to anyone else – you just wanna focus on your own enjoyment!

If your intention is to learn new skills, make it your goal to perfectly master 1-2 moves each class.

If your intention is to meet new people, make it your goal to introduce yourself to someone new, every single class.

Each time you reach your goal, reward yourself in whatever way works best for you!

This will keep you motivated to keep coming to class.

5. Try Before You Buy

While most studios do offer monthly/yearly passes for unlimited classes, beginner dancers are encouraged to start with "drop-in" classes first.

Drop-in classes are open to dancers who are not members of the studio, and are still getting a feel for the instructors and dance styles.

Many studios will let you take your first drop-in class for free, so be sure to ask about any deals they have for beginners!

You can also take unlimited free classes online for 1 full week on STEEZY Studio!

This is a great option for beginners because you can drop into as many classes as you want, without spending a dime.

6. Treat Dance as a Sport

Dance can be enjoyed in tons of casual ways – at parties, weddings, clubs, at home in front of the mirror with the lights turned down low…

But when you take a class, you’ll be entirely focused on dance for 30 minutes to an hour (or more), and that takes stamina!

Like with any sport, you have to take good care of your body in order to get the most out of your practice session.

Eat a light, healthy meal an hour or two beforehand to give yourself energy.

Drink lots of water before, during, and after class to stay hydrated.

Warm up your body before class with simple exercises – this will help your muscles relax and prevent injuries and soreness later.

After class is over, refuel your body with a small snack (granola, smoothies, and fruit are all good options) and give your body time to rest.

‍P.S. Bring a towel if you tend to sweat a lot when you exercise!

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We hope these tips gave you a little more confidence about taking your first dance class.

Still looking for a great first class to take?

Put your new knowledge to the test by taking your first class on STEEZY Studio!

We have hundreds of beginner classes in a variety of styles, as well as the perfect beginner program, “Intro to Dance”, where you can learn the basics step-by-step.