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6 Tips to help you make the most out of Salsa Dancing
For some of us Salsa Night is the night you wait for the entire week. For others it's a new experience, something to get them out of the weekly routine and spice up the weekend. But for all of us (beginners, professionals, amateurs, or those that are just coming to dance once in a while) salsa night is the one night where you can unwind to your favorite beats, let loose and get all that stress out of your system. So how can you make the best of it? Here are a few tips that can help you get the most out of your salsa dancing.
1. Be good to your feet
Since you'll be dancing all night, take especially good care of your feet and put them in a nice, comfortable pair of shoes. Specialty dance shoes are very comfortable and usually preferrable for salsa dancing, due to the suede flexible sole., but they are not required. There are many street shoes that can offer you the same comfort and similar flexibility. Ultimately, it comes down to whatever shoe you feel will give you the most support, and not hurt your feet during an entire night of dancing*.
*Please note that sneakers and shoes with rubber soles are not recommended for salsa dancing, as they have a stronger grip (great for running, not so great for spinning and turning when dancing).
2. Wear disaster-proof attire
Yes, I know this is a no brainer.... but wardrobe malfunctions happen more often than you think in the dancing world. Due to the way your body moves during salsa dancing (especially during spins, dips and turns), some pieces of clothing (while perfectly tame in other circumstances) can offer some unwanted surprises.
3. Don’t forget to stretch
Pulling a muscle is never fun. And salsa dancing is some serious cardio. So make stretching part of your pre-salsa night routine. You can do it at home as you’re getting ready, or even at the salsa dancing venue/ballroom, upon arrival. Stretch only as much as your body allows and try to focus on the muscles that will be engaged during the dancing (leg and upper arm muscles, as well as those in your lower & upper back and neck).
4. Learn as much as you can
Even the most advanced professional dancers never stop learning. Many take each other's classes and workshops, others learn directly on the dance floor. Leverage every opportunity you have to accumulate knowledge and sharpen your skills. There are many ways to learn: you can attend the salsa dancing classes/workshops offered at your prefered dancing venue or studio, watch instructional videos online, and observe other dancers on the dance floor. There is so much to be learned on the dance floor. While classes and workshops are great for breaking down routines and practicing certain steps, that is not where dancers will get most creative. It is during the actual open dancing that dancers will let loose, allow themselves to be carried away by the music and create some of the most beautiful dance moves.
5. Meet your fellow dancers
Oftentimes we have the opportunity to dance with one person multiple times, and we later realize that we never asked his/her name. Make a point to introduce yourself and ask your partner's name if you've never done so. It is good dance etiquette and, who knows.., you might just have found yourself a new friend!
6. Thank You. Gracias. Grazie. Merci. Danke
Last but not least, don't forget to say "Thank You" after your dance. More than a common courtesy, it is a way to be grateful for the opportunity to share your dancing experience with someone else.
~ These tips brought to you by Salsa Queen and Salsa Fever Fridays ~ Join us every Friday at La Fogata Grill in Short North (790 N High St) to learn new moves and practice your dancing skills. http://www.SalsaColumbus.com
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