“There’s a Time To Dance”
Categories: Standard ballroom dancing: Waltz, Foxtrot
Latin: Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, Tango, Merengue, Mambo/Salsa
Not-strictly ballroom: Four varieties of Swing
Summary of Study
In this class we will study the background and history of each dance that we learn. Lesson activities will include reading comprehension, games, chants, and grammar practice. Before we actually dance the steps, we will take 5 to 10 minutes to warm up and stretch our bodies. Muscles can be cold and tight and injured easily. Our goal is not to make you a professional dancer, but for you to be comfortable and confident about dancing at wedding receptions, parties, and/or home. The aim is to make each dance simple and practical. We will learn mostly by way of line dancing (a choreographed routine). Originally, most dances were not danced by individual couples, but in a circle. The line dance is a great way to work on foot positions, foot placements, arm styling, and Cuban motion. However, we will learn the basics for partner dancing as well.
We will also listen to different songs and learn to be able to recognize which dance/dances can be done to each. This is where you can have fun socially with everyone in your group class. Who cares if one messes up, that’s why everyone else is here—to learn and practice!
Why would I want to take a dance class?
It will help me learn English. It will be fun. It will be different. It will be healthy.
According to “Parade” magazine, twenty or more minutes of nonstop dancing increases our heart rate and produces benefits similar to that of low-impact aerobics. The payoff isn’t purely physical. According to a 25-year study of 500 people, it was found that those who danced regularly lowered their risk of mental decline related to aging. Dancing increases blood flow to the brain, curbs feelings of loneliness and challenges the brain through learning new steps and routines. It combines all factors essential to our physical and mental well being…posture, strength, flexibility, proper breathing, coordination, communication, and most of all, fun and laughter.
What to wear?
Loose-fitting clothes and comfortable shoes with leather soles
For men, no tight belts or ties
For women, no heels or open-toed sandals (unless you’re a pro).