Monday, May 25, 2009

Salsa Dancing Etiquette

Just like eating, dancing has its own “manners” at the dance floor. Follow these tips and you will make the Salsa dancing experience much more enjoyable.

Leads / Men
1. Introduce yourself (if taking lessons)
2. Ask politely for a dance, if you are turned down don’t give up
3. Wear deodorant and remember hygiene is important.
4. Take a towel to wipe your sweat
5. Lead the follow into smaller steps if the dance floor is too crowded
6. Test the level of the follow before attempting very complicated moves.
7. Dance at the level of the follow and throw in a few new moves for her to learn and enjoy

Follows / Women
1. Don’t turn down a dance, if possible say YES!
2. Smile and enjoy every dance
3. If no one is asking you to dance, ask them instead
4. Be patient with the lead if they are less experienced than you
5. No handbags while dancing
6. Wear deodorant and remember hygiene is important.

At the Dance Floor
1. Be aware of the other dancers and people around you
2. Adjust the size of your steps and moves according to how crowded the dance floor is (smaller steps for more crowded dance floors)
3. Protect your partner if you see they are about to be knocked down by another dancer
4. Avoid walking through crowded dance floors
5. No drinks – if it spills, it will ruin the dance floor

Here is a pretty good Salsa website with more Salsa etiquette tips from Toronto Dance Salsa:
http://www.torontodancesalsa.ca/articles/Salsa-Dancing-Etiquette.php

2 comments:

  1. Hi,
    Thanks for the useful tips on salsa dancing.

    Plan on taking at least two classes a week, with at least one practice session; if you want to learn (more is better).

    Practice Good Hygiene! Make sure you’re clean and ready to go. Breath mints, gum, deodorant and cologne are every salsa dancer’s best friend. Believe me; your partner will love you for it!

    Take Small Steps, and practice shifting your weight from one foot to the other, staying on front of your feet.

    Wear comfortable shoes and breathable clothing. Cotton fabrics are always a good choice.

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  2. Hi Cristina. I totally agree with everything you said - you are definitely on the right track. Good luck with your classes - there is a learning curve with salsa so don't give up!

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