Hi, I am currently writing a book for the new dancer. I want to create a chapter on the most important advice for the newby - for example 1) don't give up 2) have good posture - and so on. What would you tell a new dancer if you could give a piece of really good advice? What was the most difficult thing for you to overcome?

Whenever I have a new student I always tell them the same thing. You're in the studio to learn and in the studio we will do everything that we can to make you comfortable but when you go out dancing socially, there will be people out there who might be better than you. You might even be the only people out on the dance floor that are really doing partnership dancing.
So the most important thing that I tell my students is that no matter how hard it is or how long it takes, learn to dance for yourself. If you worry about what others are thinking about you, you'll never even make it out onto the dance floor. All you should worry about is how you look to yourself and how much fun you're having because that's what dancing is all about, having fun.
To sum up, the most important advice I could give in my professional opinion: Learn to dance for yourselves, not for anyone else.
~LB

You Haven't Truly Made It Until Your Head Is On A Pez Dispenser

The hardest thing for me (still) is to let my restraints/my reservations go and still focus at the same time. It shows when you are afraid to express yourself.

P J

Don't be afraid to make mistakes-- you learn from them. Don't turn down the opportunity to dance, work on technique/quality as much or more than learning new things. Have fuuuuuunnn!

da.

At dance parties, don't be afraid to ask people to dance, especially ladies asking men. You'll find that if your honest about your abilities, more advanced dancers will dance with you and offer you advice or teach you new patterns. I've never turned down anyone, who's come up to me and said "I'm a beginner, would you mind dancing this one with me?." Or "Could you show me the basic?." To ask in the first place takes guts, and comes easier with practice. There will always be a few people who say "no," that is to be expected. You'll learn quickly who are obliging and who aren't.

The same goes for being asked to dance, tell your partner what to expect and give them a chance to step out and find someone else if they want. Most won't, but some will, especially on the more advanced dances like V. Waltz, and W.C. Swing.

Lastly, it's okay to refuse to dance with someone. Especially, if they make you uncomfortable. Just if you use the excuse of wanting to "sit this one out," you really shouldn't go to the dance floor with another partner. That's rude

Do not have special feelings/fall in love with your instructor. The negatives outnumber the positives.

If you are planning to compete, it is not how many lessons you've had or how long you've been dancing (Am I good enough to compete?) that will determine when to compete- it is when you decide you really want to do it. You would start in the newcomer division. The competitive spirit doesn't really start until advanced bronze/beginning silver levels. And the most important reasons- fun, fun, fun, and a sense of accomplishment (well deserved). You may want to spectate before you compete.

Go to many social dances. Dance with many partners- not just with your spouse or significant other. Again- have fun.

Do not wear jeans and sneakers to lessons, social dances, or competitions. I feel that this shows disrespect for yourself, your instructor, and your school.

breath mints
deoderant
shower

And then have fun. Just being willing to get
out there on the floor with a partner and try
it takes courage - and if you can do that, you
can go as far as you want.

I always recommned that newbies attend studio parties or practice dances so they can practice what they learn. They should also use this opportunity to dance with various partners.

Blair