How to Get Started with Dance

SHCS Service Announcement

Due to scheduled union action on

Thursday, May 1st,

there may be a reduction in services at SHCS.

We are taking necessary precautions to assure your visit to SHCS during that timeframe goes smoothly.

Anytime, including when SHCS has reduced services, students can call the following resources:

Medical:

Medical Advice Nurse at 530-752-2349

Counseling:

Counseling Services 24 Hour Consultation Line: 530-752-0871 or

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Additional support is available: LiveHealth Online for SHIP students (virtual medical and mental health care) and UWill (virtual mental health care).

Benefits of Dance

While some people love running or working out in a gym, these activities are not for everyone. It can be hard to stick to an exercise if you do not enjoy it. If this sounds like you, dancing may be a way to make exercising more fun! Just like many other forms of exercise, dancing can help:

Reduce risk of heart disease
Improve blood pressure
Maintain a healthy weight
Improve bone density
Improve muscle strength
Improve coordination and balance
Reduce stress and fatigue
Improve energy and mood
Increase self-esteem and confidence
Improve memory

Where To Get Started With Dance

Some ways to learn how to dance include joining a dance class or an on-campus dance group to learn from someone who can tailor their teachings to your experience level. Dancing with others is also a great way to make friends and stay motivated. Fortunately, there are many beginner-friendly dance classes and on-campus student dance groups to get involved with:

On-Campus Student Dance Organizations

Dance Classes and Events in Davis

If you would rather dance in the privacy of your own home, watching dance tutorials is a great way to learn. Although you may need to find a friend to learn partner dances, watching videos can help you develop a love of dance independently.

Dancing Is A Workout

Anytime you workout, you should take some precautions to avoid injury. Before dancing, make sure to take a few minutes to stretch and warm up. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, always listen to your body, and keep in mind any individual advice your doctor has given you about exercise.

Know what kind of clothing is best for your dance style of choice

Clothing recommendations vary between each style of dance. For many styles, like ballroom, casual street-wear is usually fine. For more precise styles, like ballet, there may be a particular dress code to follow, like wearing a leotard or tights. For other types of dance, like hip-hop, loose and comfortable clothing may be best. Ask a teacher or other dancers if you’re not sure what kind of clothing is best.

Shoes are very important to think about because not all shoes are safe for all dances, so make sure to find out what kind you need for your style of choice. If you’re going to a dance class for the first time and don’t know if you want to invest in new shoes yet, see if the teacher provides shoes for beginners.

Stay determined and practice!

Sticking to a new and perhaps difficult activity can be as much of a mental challenge as a physical challenge. If you ever feel like quitting, remember the reasons that you started, seek advice from other dancers and reflect on all of the progress you’ve made. Think of how great you’ll feel after sticking to a new activity and accomplishing your goals!

- Decide what kind of dance you would like to try

- Seek guidance

More Tips for Dancing

Salsa is a good dance style for beginners because the basic moves are simple and easy to get the hang of.
Pay attention to your posture while dancing. Don’t be shy about looking at yourself in the mirror!
Watch other dancers for inspiration.
Dance is supposed to be fun, so don’t take it too seriously when you’re just getting started! Be confident, even when you make mistakes!

Exercising for the very first time or getting back into it after a long break can be intimidating, but there are relaxing and fun ways to get moving. If dancing sounds like an exercise you could enjoy, don’t be afraid to get started.

Not only is dancing an amazing way to be creative and express yourself, but it is also a great workout. Particularly for those who are new or returning to regular exercise, dance can be a fun and fulfilling way to incorporate physical activity into a healthy lifestyle. It does not matter how much experience you have – anyone can get started in dance!

Getting Started

There is no one right way to start dancing. Whether you want to boogie around your living room during TV commercials or work toward performing for an audience, you can develop a passion for dancing. Here is a quick guide to getting started:

There are countless styles of dance to choose from, including hip-hop, tap, jazz, ballroom, ballet, swing, lyrical, cultural dance styles and more. As you’re choosing a style, take into account your personal goals and dance inspirations. Don’t be afraid to try something that seems impossible – everyone starts somewhere, and you’re more likely to get better if you actually like it!