| Why Learn To Dance Salsa? |
|
|
|
|
|
1. Exercise - Get in shape while having fun!
2. Balance - You work hard... do something fun for yourself!
3. Expand Your Social Life - Meet new people with a common interest!
4. Gain Self-Confidence - Stand out on any dance floor!
5. Great Way to Spend Time With a Friend or Loved One - Need a hobby you both enjoy?
6. Improve Your Social Dancing Skills - Have fun at parties and social gatherings!
7. Relieve Stress - Take your mind off of everyday stresses!
8. Overcome Shyness - It's time to come out of your shell!
9. Improve Your Posture - Learn correct dance technique!
10. Improve Your Memory - Memorize many dance patterns! |
|
SAVE YOUR BRAIN! DANCE!
| | | |
 The Einstein Aging Study, summarized in June 19, 2003 New England Journal of Medicine, found that dancing helps prevent Dementia. Dementia in the study refers to both Alzheimer's disease and Vascular dementia. Vascular dementia is the 2nd most common form of dementia after Alzheimer's.
The study included participants in six brain-stimulating hobbies - reading, writing for pleasure, doing puzzles, board games or playing cards, group discussions and playing music. The study also included participants in 11 physical activities including team sports, swimming, bicycling and dance. Dance was the only physical activity found to benefit the brain. This was attributed to the cerebral rather than the physical aspect of dance.
Researchers found that the relationship between the mind-stimulating effects of dancing, as well as in the above six types of hobbies, and the lowered risk of dementia remained strong, even after they allowed for variables such as age, sex and education. Frequency of activity was also important 63% lower than that among subjects in the lowest third.
|
|
We believe this emphasizes the importance of engaging in a regular program of dancing. The need to learn and remember numerous dance movements produces a constant and very beneficial challenge to the brain. The social aspects of dancing, the relaxation it produces and the joy of dancing also is involved. The sense of accomplishment and confidence acquired by successfully completing a dance with a partner are beneficial, as well.
Fitness, both mental and physical, often begins with one's state of mind. Mental acuity comes from mental exercise and if you're dancing, you're not sitting at home watching TV or feeling sorry for yourself. This applies to every one of all ages. Among mind stimulating activities, dancing is unique in that it also provides beneficial physical exercise.
Many people have gotten the message. That's why we see increasing numbers of people of all ages having the time of their lives on dance floors all over the country. They are receiving a couple payoffs, mental and physical.
KEEP YOUR BRAIN ALIVE!
DANCE FREQUENTLY! |
How Many Calories Do I Burn While I Dance?
There is no doubt that dancing is great aerobic exercise, but are you aware of how many calories you’re burning while you’re grooving to your favorite music? You’ll be amazed at how many calories you burn while having fun! Check out the chart below:
|
STYLE OF DANCE
|
Approximate Calories Burned Per Hour
|
|
100 lb. Dancer
|
125 lb. Dancer
|
150 lb. Dancer
|
175 lb. Dancer
|
200 lb. Dancer
|
|
Disco, Cha Cha Cha, Mambo, Salsa, Cumbia, Merengue |
264
|
330
|
396
|
462
|
528
| |
Samba, Ballet, Fast Dances
|
288
|
360
|
432
|
504
|
576
| |
Waltz, Foxtrot, Bachata Tango, Rhumba, Bolero |
144
|
180
|
216
|
252
|
288
|
Back to top
Project a positive image on the dance floor!
 Be personable, smile, and make eye contact with your partner every so often throughout the dance. Try to project a warm and positive image on the dance floor, even if that is not your personal style. Avoid looking elsewhere while dancing with your partner; your eyes should remain focused on her/him and your ears on the music.
Back to top
Etiquette tips for experienced dancers!
 Gentlemen: If you are more experienced than your partner, dance at the level she is in. Always start with simple figures, and gradually work your way up to more complicated patterns.
Ladies: If you are a more experienced dancer than your partner is, be patient with him. Remember that the learning process can be challenging.
Back to top
Stay fresh while dancing!
 Partner dancing keeps us in close contact with our partners, and since Salsa is a very aerobic dance, we quickly generate extra body heat and become sweaty and not so fresh! Therefore, it is important to always be considerate of our partners when dancing and be sure to always have a tootbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, and perhaps even a towel handy. If you're always on the go and don't always have the time to stop and freshen up, try carrying gum or mints with you, as well as a travel size deodorant/antiperspirant, perhaps in your purse or in your car. Take these precautions and you're partners will appreciate it!
Back to top
What to avoid on the dancefloor!
 In a perfect "dance world" we would have great chemistry and connection with each partner we dance with. This is not always the case, and it is not necessarily a bad thing. Each dance is unique, not one is alike, and you learn something new, whether positive or negative, from each.
Gentlemen: You should avoid teaching your partner new patterns or steps during a social dance or in a class setting. Concentrate on doing what both of you can do, and enjoy the dance. Unsolicited teaching may make your partner feel uncomfortable and takes the fun out of dancing. If you're in a class setting and find yourself struggling with your partner ask your instructor/s for help!
Ladies: You should avoid telling your partner how to lead you during a social dance. If you are in a class setting, try to avoid back leading, or anticipating the steps. Anticipating your partner's lead will cause him to get frustrated and will take the fun out of dancing. If you find yourself struggling with your partner ask your instructor/s for help!
Back to top
A note on Dance & Romance
 Due to the nature of Salsa dancing, the mannerisms and styling projected during a dance can easily be mistaken for genuine romantic interest from either partner. When we dance our objective is to interpret the music and the feelings it evokes through our movements, in sync with our dance partner. As a couple, the key to your dancing and romantic happiness is to remember that dancing is merely role-playing, and not a true reflection of intimate feelings. Realizing this can spare you unecessary anguish, and in fact, will help build a stronger relationship.
As a side note, rotating and dancing with other people during dance class will make you a better leader (gentlemen) and follower (ladies). Plus, coming back to your sweetheart at the end of the hour will be much sweeter, and it could potentianlly save you an argument! When we dance with our significant other it is easy for us to point out their shortcomings, therefore hurting their feelings. At the same time, we may take their suggestions, or criticisms (as we see them), all too personally!
At the end of the day, it is ultimately your decision to choose whether or not you dance with your loved one exclusively, and we respect that! Just remember to be a supportive partner; be sensitive to your partner's learning pace and most importantly, have FUN!!!
Back to top
At the end of the dance...
At the end of the dance...
 Gentlemen: When a song comes to an end, escort your partner back to where you asked her to dance. Never just leave your partner out on the dance floor. Remember to always thank your partner after a dance.
Ladies: After the dance is finished, thank your partner :-)
Back to top
Patience & Open Mind
PATIENCE with yourself & having an OPEN MIND will take you far!
 Do you remember your first Salsa class? You may have been feeling excited, nervous, or both! Was learning to dance easier or harder than you thought it would be? Most students confess that learning to dance "is harder than it looks". One of the keys to becoming a good dancer is to have patience with yourself. In the early stages it is easy to become frustrated and consequently give up. As long as you remind yourself that it is alright to make mistakes and that slowly but surely you'll get there, you'll get far.
Next time you find yourself frustrated or behind in class, patience, perseverance, and an open frame of mind will save you! Keep on trying, ask for help, take a deep breath and smile- don't give up!
Back to top
Am I on Beat?
Am I on Beat?
 Understanding the beat of the music is the challenge of many beginners, and often times, intermediate and even advanced Salsa dancers. This isn't surprising at all, since Salsa music is composed of so many complex rhythms with underlying musical beats occurring simultaneously. Salsa music often has approximately 180 beats per minute!
Ladies: When dancing with a partner whose "off rhythm", challenge yourself to follow HIM instead of the music. Unless you lead the dance, it will be nearly impossible to keep him on beat without him feeling like he's not "in control" of the dance, which can lead to frustration and loss of enjoyment.
Gentlemen: You may have found yourself dancing with a partner who's anticipating your leads, perhaps because she's anxious that she will be an inadequate follower. Most commonly, when ladies are off rhythm they will be dancing too fast. To help her establish the rhythm of the song, it helps to start in closed position with a firm yet gentle frame that will allow you to guide her through her basic steps. Make sure to be aware of her footing; leading her into a turn or step at the wrong time may affect her balance!
If you feel like you too have trouble staying on rhythm, check out our article titled "Salsa Rhythm and Timing".
Back to top
New Year's Resolution
New Year's Resolution
 What are your New Year's Resolutions? No matter what they are, we can assure you that dancing is at the top of most everyone's list. The benefits of dance are numerous, and below are just a few to get you motivated to keep dancing through the new year:
1. Salsa dancing is GREAT aerobic exercise. Get in shape while having fun- it sure beats the treadmill at the gym!
2. Work your Salsa lessons into your budget. These are economically challenging times, as you all well know, but Salsa dancing is an inexpensive way to give your life some balance. Your work hard day in and day out- reward yourself and de-stress in the process!
3. This year make it a goal to expand your social circle. Meet new people, learn new things, expand your horizons! Salsa dancing will give you confidence and allow you to meet others with common interests!
Back to top
Videotaping on the dance floor
Videotaping on the Dance Floor
 You may have found yourself pondering the idea of videotaping others during a social dance whom you consider to be great dancers; dancers to study or learn something new from. Though some may consider this flattery, be aware that some may find it distracting and invasive!
If you are inclined to videotape a couple during a social dance please make sure to ask them for permission first. It is rude not to ask for permission even if they are acquaintances. You cannot assume they will be okay with it simply because they know you. Even though you may see no harm in recording because you are doing it for self-instruction purposes and there is no harm intended, remember that others may have personal and even professional reasons for why they are not comfortable being recorded. Whatever their reasons are, they are valid and should be respected, no matter what. Same goes for picture cameras or any other recording equipment of this sort.
If you find yourself being recorded and find it flattering that someone is recording you- great! Enjoy your moment in the spotlight! But if you find it uncomfortable or "creepy" please make sure to pull that person aside and let them know to stop. Most likely they don't mean any harm and will be glad to stop. If you find yourself in this situation in one of our classes or at one of social dance venues and feel uncomfortable letting that person know, simply approach either one of the instructors or staff and we will be glad to let them know for you.
Back to top
Dancing and Flexibility
Flexibility in a dancer is very important
 Salsa dancing does not require that you do your Chinese splits in the middle of a dance, but it does require some flexibility, especially when learning advanced movement techniques, including some of those fancy pretzel arm locks or styling steps for ladies. Most importantly, being flexible will help protect you from preventable muscle strains and soreness.
Some of you may be naturally limber, but most have to work a little harder at gaining flexibility and strength. They key to stretching and improving your flexibility requires consistency and effort. Pushing the muscles to quick and enduring pain is counter-productive. The idea is to relax and gently stretch the muscles, more and more each day. Try to find just a few minutes a day to stretch, make it part of your daily routine. Stretch before class, after class, while watching T.V., before going to bed, etc. Your body will thank you and your dancing will feel and look a lot better!
Back to top
Doesn't Salsa dancing on a crowded floor often feel like you're playing bumper cars? Occasional bumping and getting stepped on on the dance floor is painful and inevitable but can be curtailed. If you find yourself bumping into others or you're getting bumped on the dance floor too often, the following tips may help:
|
BUMPERS
1. Take small steps!
2. When turning or spinning, be sure to spot your partner and be mindful of those around you. You may have to stick to single turns vs. two or three.
3.Minimize your styling or resort to styling that involves your limbs staying close to your body (i.e. body rolls, shimmies, head combs vs. big arm extensions, leg sweeps).
4. If you do happen to bump into someone, simply make eye contact and apologize. Don't ignore it or pretend it didn't happen even if you feel it wasn't your fault!
5. If you've stomped on, punched, or bumped into someone and that person gets seriously hurt or seems extremely irritated, stop dancing and offer your assistance. Perhaps they may need a band-aid or an ice pack. A kind gesture goes a long way!
6. Avoid lifts, drops, or tricks of any kind.
7. Remind yourself to keep your partner on a slot or your "line of dance" as much as you can. This will establish your spot on the dance floor and will prevent others from bumping into you as well!
establish your spot on the dance floor and will
prevent others from bumping into you as well!
|
BUMPEES
1. Don't forget that everyone including yourself, at one time or another, has been a bumper. It's an inevitable part of dancing on a crowded floor- unfortunately!
2. If you feel like the floor is too crowded for your liking, consider sitting out the dance.
3. If you're constantly being bumped by someone on the dance floor, move away from them- far away from them, and find another spot on the floor.
4. If possible, try to dance on corners or along the edge of the floor. You will have more freedom there and are less likely to get bumped.
Back to top
|
Ladies Styling: How To?
Ladies Styling: How To?
 Ladies' think about this: when you're putting an outfit together, it isn't complete without the accessories, right? The earrings, necklace, purse, scarf, etc., are what polish and pull your look together. Think of styling the same way. Styling embellishes your dancing and adds impact on the dance floor- much like your sparkly earrings do to an outfit!
Ladies' always tell me that they don't know what to do, when to do it, or how to apply it. I always suggest that you start from the feet up. Most people are comfortable learning how to stylize their basic step and cross body lead footwork first, so it's good to start with that, and then move your way up to your legs, hips, arms, hands, shoulders, and head.
If you're new to styling it's a good idea to start slow. Learn one styling point at a time and practice it over and over, until it's like second nature. Doing too much too soon will interfere with following your partner's leads. Add one new styling point at at time until you build a repertoire and learn to improvise to the music. Also, remember that the most important element of styling is confidence. If you worry about others watching you or critiquing you, it's going to show. Let go of that fear and have fun!
Not sure how to start? Start by joining the Ladies' Styling Workshop at the end of the month where Salud will show you fun and easy styling points. Want more intensive training? Take a private lesson, and you'll be a styling diva in no time!
Back to top
How to Deal with Getting Turned Down
 You're eyeing a potential dance partner from across the room and are hesitant about walking across the dance floor and asking for a dance, weary about the walk of shame back to your spot if she or he says, "No".
For many guys, and some ladies, it is a challenge to work up the courage to ask someone to dance and even more painful when they get turned down. But no worries, getting turned down will happen to even the best dancer from time to time, and there should be no hard feelings; just let it go.
Ladies' will often turn guys down for one of several reasons, none of which
may be directly attritubuted to you. Here are some examples:
1. She may have just danced 10 dances in a row- she needs a break!
2. She might feel too sweaty.
3. She doesn't know how to dance that type of music.
4. She's having wardrobe malfunction.
5. She's enjoying her drink.
6. She just had garlic for dinner and is worried about her breath.
7. Her feet hurt.
Though less common, guys may also decline a dance due to the following:
1. He's intimidated by you.
2. He doesn't know how to dance.
3. He's accompanied by his jealous girlfriend.
If you are being repeatedly turned down and are unable to get more than a couple dances all night, it might be due to a hygiene-related issue. Are you too sweaty? Cool off and wipe dry. Perhaps you're not as "fresh" since your shower this morning? Carry a deodorant in your car and apply as needed. Bad breath? Pop a mint!
Not always will someone turn you down because you are an incompetent dancer. Most people like dancing with dancers of all levels and backgrounds. The reason you got turned down might be more trivial than you think. If you get turned down, just smile confidently and say, "Ok, maybe next time", let it go, and try again.
Back to top
Created on 2005-01-28 14:27:25 by sergio
Updated on 2010-04-07 17:15:17 by sergio
|
|
|
