Not only is dancing an amazing way to be creative and express yourself, but it is also a great workout. Particularly for those who are new or returning to regular exercise, dance can be a fun and fulfilling way to incorporate physical activity into a healthy lifestyle. It does not matter how much experience you have – anyone can get started in dance!
Getting Started
There is no one right way to start dancing. Whether you want to boogie around your living room during TV commercials or work toward performing for an audience, you can develop a passion for dancing. Here is a quick guide to getting started:
There are countless styles of dance to choose from, including hip-hop, tap, jazz, ballroom, ballet, swing, lyrical, cultural dance styles and more. As you’re choosing a style, take into account your personal goals and dance inspirations. Don’t be afraid to try something that seems impossible – everyone starts somewhere, and you’re more likely to get better if you actually like it!
Benefits of Dance
While some people love running or working out in a gym, these activities are not for everyone. It can be hard to stick to an exercise if you do not enjoy it. If this sounds like you, dancing may be a way to make exercising more fun! Just like many other forms of exercise, dancing can help:
- Reduce risk of heart disease
- Improve blood pressure
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Improve bone density
- Improve muscle strength
- Improve coordination and balance
- Reduce stress and fatigue
- Improve energy and mood
- Increase self-esteem and confidence
- Improve memory
Where To Get Started With Dance
Some ways to learn how to dance include joining a dance class or an on-campus dance group to learn from someone who can tailor their teachings to your experience level. Dancing with others is also a great way to make friends and stay motivated. Fortunately, there are many beginner-friendly dance classes and on-campus student dance groups to get involved with:
On-Campus Student Dance Organizations
- Davis Dance Scene
- AGAPE
- Breakin’ Club @ UC Davis
- Golden Turtle Lion Dance Association
- Mobility
- Popping Club
- Ruthless Citizens Dance Crew
- SoNE1
- Telemark Dance Troupe
- SYNergy
- Baile de Fuego, UC Davis Latin Dance Club
- Davis Ballroom Dance
- Argentine Tango Dance Club at UC Davis
- West Coast Swing Club
Dance Classes and Events in Davis
- Country Dancing and Salsa at the Grad
- Davis Art Center
- International House
- Davis Pole Dance Studio
- UC Davis ARC
- SynRG Art and Wellness Center
- ASUCD Experimental College
- Davis International Folk Dancers
- Pamela Trokanski Dance Workshop & Performing Arts Center
If you would rather dance in the privacy of your own home, watching dance tutorials is a great way to learn. Although you may need to find a friend to learn partner dances, watching videos can help you develop a love of dance independently.
Dancing Is A Workout
Anytime you workout, you should take some precautions to avoid injury. Before dancing, make sure to take a few minutes to stretch and warm up. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, always listen to your body, and keep in mind any individual advice your doctor has given you about exercise.
Know what kind of clothing is best for your dance style of choice
Clothing recommendations vary between each style of dance. For many styles, like ballroom, casual street-wear is usually fine. For more precise styles, like ballet, there may be a particular dress code to follow, like wearing a leotard or tights. For other types of dance, like hip-hop, loose and comfortable clothing may be best. Ask a teacher or other dancers if you’re not sure what kind of clothing is best.
Shoes are very important to think about because not all shoes are safe for all dances, so make sure to find out what kind you need for your style of choice. If you’re going to a dance class for the first time and don’t know if you want to invest in new shoes yet, see if the teacher provides shoes for beginners.
Stay determined and practice!
Sticking to a new and perhaps difficult activity can be as much of a mental challenge as a physical challenge. If you ever feel like quitting, remember the reasons that you started, seek advice from other dancers and reflect on all of the progress you’ve made. Think of how great you’ll feel after sticking to a new activity and accomplishing your goals!
- Decide what kind of dance you would like to try
- Seek guidance
More Tips for Dancing
- Salsa is a good dance style for beginners because the basic moves are simple and easy to get the hang of.
- Pay attention to your posture while dancing. Don’t be shy about looking at yourself in the mirror!
- Watch other dancers for inspiration.
- Dance is supposed to be fun, so don’t take it too seriously when you’re just getting started! Be confident, even when you make mistakes!
Exercising for the very first time or getting back into it after a long break can be intimidating, but there are relaxing and fun ways to get moving. If dancing sounds like an exercise you could enjoy, don’t be afraid to get started.