How to find your own dancing style

We know starting your dancing journey can be a little bit challenging, but we’re here to help. Try following these steps so you can really connect with what makes you happy and feel free on the dance floor.

Find out who you are! Reflect on your personality.

We are all different people inside and we should reflect that when we dance. Let’s say you have a very conservative perspective, and you don’t like close physical contact, but you’re trying to learn salsa. That’s not going to feel yours. Salsa is arguably the most sensual dance for couples. If you don't enjoy it, it's not sustainable. So, align with what feels good to you.

Learn the basics.

Like musical rhythm, timing, and basic movement skills. Such as getting used to moving your arms.

Think about your favorite music.

Pay attention to the music. For example: do you like Bachata, HipHop, or Ballet? You’ll find that you gravitate to either one or any different style because of the music and how it makes you feel. Your dancing style will naturally become so much stronger, more unique, and more beautiful because everything will be happening organically. 

Attend classes in a variety of styles you like the most.

A lot of the time, you’re learning from one particular teacher, and you end up just doing what you’re told and becoming a copy of that teacher. You have to experiment and explore on your own. The more you get yourself exposed to - the more likely you’re going to have different influences. You’re not going to be stuck in one specific mindset or style. Learning from one good technician is always a great start but you’ll need to expose yourself to multiple styles if you want to craft your own. A lot of dance-styling is just individual interpretations of diverse techniques. 

Comfort.

Wear dance apparel and shoes that make you feel good. 

A pair of good dance shoes should provide you with comfort, protection of your feet, and will help facilitate movements. At the same time, they should reflect the image that corresponds to the type of dance you are performing. Also, the right apparel serves to support the dancer’s body, offer smooth movement without any limitations, as well as give you the confidence you need to be yourself when you dance. For example, big shirts are flowy, add movement, and are good for styles that include a lot of range. Small shorts give lower body parts the main focus. Hats will give your hands something to play with.

Above all, always remember that: 

There’s no right or wrong.

There’s correct/incorrect techniques and forms when dancing, but when it goes beyond the techniques - there’s no limit on what you can do. As long as people can recognize what style of dance you’re doing, and you’re of course following the style rules. You do you. Add your own flavor. These movements can become unique and appealing with practice and you’re definitely going to stand out of the crowd!