A rewarding dance class can be hard to find, and it takes effort and research to find the right one that’s best for you. So that’s why the Dance Class Blog was set up. It’s here to assist you, to make sure that you find the most reliable & effective dance class out there. We know it can be tricky sometimes, and to discover a quality studio with a truly good instructor is something that we think everyone should have access to…

The dance class Blog Team has compiled a forum for you to discover some top-notch yet economical dance class locations. We want you to be united with the most exciting and vibrant dance teachers, period. That’s why we’re here, and that’s why we’ve created this blog. We know the teachers, we know the towns, we know the studios, and we want you to learn to dance…

Take a peak at our up-to-date dance class listings, or review some of our dance videos to learn at your own pace. These sites are a good starting point: DanceCrazy, SalsaDanceDVD, or The Dance Store

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Dancing to the music is a great idea in shape and staying healthy. Done regularly, it may be a great form of exercise, it burn calories, improves coordination, builds endurance and most important, it is fun. Beyond that, dancing to the music is also less likely to be dull in comparison with other activities, because there are always new steps to learn and the music is motivation.

Most health clubs offer some types of dance exercise program or class. Sample a few types of classes to your positive style, and music teacher. Classes with a start and end dates are best if you want to be on equal level with other student. Do not expect as a pro in the first session. Part of the fun is learning new steps and be challenged to your body in new, unknown and possible ways.

Approach each class with with a positive image of the spirit and know that you improve your health and pleasure, not with each other to win a dance contest or as the best in the room. Some lessons are focused around the couples’ dances, as the ballroom. These lessons are a perfect opportunity with your boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse. If you do not have someone to the class with you, do not worry. Many classes will surprise you with a different partner every week. And that is an excellent way to meet new people.

You will probably have a favorite style of dancing to the music but do not forget to mix it up. A ballet class is to work your body other than hip-hop, Irish or jazz dance class, and disable the classes is the best way to the health benefits, while reducing the risk of damage from overuse same muscle groups.

Some dancing to the music lesson will focus on building the music stamina and strength, but dancing is usually heart. So extra strength in your week, so your muscles get stronger and healthy body.

If you are unable to join the classes, then you buy a volume of video CDs to learn a number of major steps. With steps to move guide, who can quickly learn the joy of dancing to the music tune. It will be fun and health until the next dance music. An online on the internet, you may find useful volume guide CDs.

With dancing to the music, you guide your body movement to the rhythmic tune of music. It is a joy of happiness run up your body in such a fun way. Help to build your body and mind to stay in good shape.

Check this out on the website and may of good help to you.

charles chan
http://www.articlesbase.com/aerobics-articles/dancing-to-the-music-a-great-fun-way-to-keep-fit-and-healthy-477599.html

Just a few years ago, Kim Gibilisco, a choreographer, dancer and Polestar- and Stott Pilates–trained instructor, was teaching private Pilates sessions in her Manhattan studio. Today, she is an Assistant Professor of Dance at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia, and the woman responsible for bringing a Pilates mat certification program to the school. Here she discusses how she came to be SU’s Pilates Program Coordinator and where Pilates fits in the university setting.

PP: How did the idea of a collegiate Pilates program come about, and what did it take to convince school officials?
KG: When I accepted my position in the Dance Department at SU, my chairperson, Erica Helm, and I discussed the possibility of offering a Mat Teacher Training course to our students. I designed the curriculum in the summer of 2005 then applied for Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) approval as an Educational Member. Applying to the PMA was an important part of the process, as I wanted to be sure that our program was properly sanctioned. I also wanted to ensure that our graduates could apply for PMA membership and be accepted into Apparatus programs in the future if they wanted to pursue more. The Mat program was approved and we began running the program in Fall 2005. The program was embraced from the very beginning by our university.

PP: How did you design the curriculum and what are the requirements?
KG: I designed the curriculum specifically for a student population (ages 19-25) who may not have had any experience with the method. One semester of college level anatomy is required to enroll. Since our students are in a four-year program (versus typical weekend-based training seminars), I wanted to capitalize on the available time I had to teach the material. I determined that a two-semester sequence was the most effective way to teach the material to this population.  Students must earn at least an 84% in the first semester to advance to the second semester.

The first semester entails 2 hour of Mat experiential and 1 hour of lecture per week. In the second semester, students take Mat once a week with me. Then students rotate in teaching the whole group a Mat class once a week. Following a student Mat class, participants offer feedback on the effectiveness and teaching style of the student instructor. In the second semester, the lectures focus on teaching methods and class design. Using their understanding of the Trilogy, the 6 Pilates Principles (control, centering, concentration, flowing movement, precision and breath) and the 5 Pilates Lab Principles (use of inhalation and exhalation, pelvic floor, restorative poses, visual gaze and neutral spine) students design a class with a theme or concept they want to address. Written and practical midterms and finals are also administered.

Using some of the Mat Teacher Training models I researched, I designed the curriculum to include lectures and practicums that I believe are important in becoming a well-rounded teacher of the method. For example, our students are tested in physical practicums where they must demonstrate their mastery of the 34 exercises as well as in teaching practicums where they must demonstrate their ability to teach confidently and effectively. I also wanted to offer students course work on the various props used in the Mat work, (e.g.: magic circle, foam roller and thera-bands and thera-ball) so that they did not need to attend continuing education courses outside of the university setting to develop their breadth of knowledge. In addition, I teach contra-indications for diabetes, orthopedic issues and pregnancy so that our graduates feel comfortable with teaching a variety of populations. What I stress the most is the importance of “knowing what you don’t know and to teach ONLY what you know.” For example, if a client asks them about an orthopedic issue that is out of their scope of practice, they know to refer them to a medical professional. Our students are taught how to self-assess and where to look for more information if they are unclear.

PP: Are you the only instructor involved with the Pilates program?
KG: Yes, as per the PMA, all teachers must have at least 5 years of teaching experience to instruct teacher trainers.

PP: What type of students does the program attract?
KG: Up until 2007, we have had primarily dance majors enrolled in the program. However, this academic year our Music Theatre majors and staff have also enrolled and successfully completed the program.  For the 2008-2009 academic year, we have dance majors, music theatre majors, SU alumni and community members enrolled.

PP: Are students who complete all the requirements considered certified Pilates instructors?
KG: Only the PMA can “certify” teachers in the method. As an Educational Member of the PMA, our teacher trainers are given a certificate of completion with the SU and PMA logos on it.

PP: Is Pilates an actual major, and if not, how does it work into a student’s graduation plan?
KG: Our Teacher Training Program is an elective course that can fulfill a dance elective requirement.

PP: How many students have been through the program, and are they actively teaching now?
KG: We have had 26 students complete the Mat Teacher Training course of which 14 students are actively teaching Pilates Mat.

Jessica Cassity
http://www.articlesbase.com/yoga-articles/pilates-goes-to-college-717209.html

Dance has been an important part of rituals, celebrations and entertainment since before the birth of human civilization. In the beginning, before we had written language to record things, the purpose of dance was often to tell stories and to pass them down to future generations.

The story of dancing in Cuba

In Cuba, as in ancient times, dance tells its own story. The passion and energy of Cuban dance reveals the strength and conviction of the Cuban people, determined to enjoy life despite ‘la lucha’ (the struggle) of living in a strictly regulated country where the average monthly wage comes in at around 400 pesos – less than £10.

The richness of Cuban music and dancing also tells the story of Cuba’s melting pot of cultures. From the high-stepping flamenco brought by the Spanish settlers in the 15th century to the frenzied tribal dances of the West African slaves, dancing is in the blood of the Cuban people.

From the teenage girl in denim shorts to the cigar-seller on the street corner, Cubans are given to break into spontaneous dance steps. Furthermore, the people dancing on the streets of Havana are likely to be just as good as the professionals, because in Cuba dancing is simply a way of life.

The variety of Cuban dances

Cuba boasts a huge range of dances including classical ballet, contemporary, flamenco and folk dancing. But it is the partnered routines that appeared in Havana dancehalls between the 1920s and the 1950s – Salsa, rumba, mambo and cha-cha-cha – that can be seen in every Cuban bar, club and street. Of these, Salsa is the most popular dance internationally.

Since the name ‘Salsa’ (it’s Spanish for ’sauce’) was coined, Salsa dancing has exploded in popularity in Latin America and across the world. Salsa dancing classes are now hugely popular but to really get into the swing of it a Salsa holiday in Cuba itself is a must.

Tips for Cuban Salsa dancing

If you do take yourself on a Cuban holiday, you’ll have the unique experience of watching Cubans Salsa dancing. It sometimes appears that by some genetic aberration they have been born with super flexible joints, defying physics to carry out all the complex manoeuvres they have integrated into the dancing. Their remarkable twisting body movements and natural sense of rhythm will dazzle you.

If you have the right technique, Cuban Salsa is easier to learn than many other forms of dance. The basic footwork is a fairly simple walking motion, pausing every fourth beat, and there are some six basic steps you can follow to make sure you’re on the right tracks.

1 Relax

To dance Cuban Salsa well it is important not to rush, but to relax into the steps. Movements should be precise and deliberate in addition to being flowing and smooth.

2 Walk with purpose

Salsa dancing involves a continual circular motion. Couples walk around each other with an imaginary axis between them. This makes turns look smooth and effortless. Walking gives time to untangle your arms after each turn.

3 Have confidence in your lead

The leader (usually the man) should have constant tension in his arms, while his hands guide his Salsa dancing partner around the floor. There is no need to clamp onto each other’s hands, only to use the right amount of tension to provide a leading signal.

4 Be flexible when following

In order to follow well, ladies should try to match the tension of their partner. The exception to this is when arms need to be relaxed and flexible to complete arm-twisting Salsa moves without injury!

5 Keep balanced when you spin

The key to all the spectacular spins in Salsa is not to lose your balance. One way to do it is by spotting while you spin – focusing on one spot at each turn – an age-old dance technique.

6 Use your body

In Salsa dancing, ladies should make use of their body and be sensual, playful and creative. This can involve some creative arm movements, going with what feels right and basically showing off a bit. Enjoy!

Emma Lelliott
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-stepbystep-guide-to-cuban-salsa-285297.html

The first time is always the hardest and even though private instruction is just that, private, group classes are not really that intimidating.  Most people you’ll find in these sorts of groups are extremely encouraging and friendly. However if you’re really shy then private instruction is the way to go. With all the TV coverage it’s really got people saying I want to do that.

Sequence and New Vogue dancing is easy to learn. You start with easy ones and then progress to the more difficult amalgamations.  Since the exposure of dance in the media dancing in all types and styles has really taken off. Classes have increased dramatically and people want more. There are over one hundred sequence dances and more are being created and published via the UK, finally reaching the Australian shores. Here in Australia we have tended to take on British dancing from our early origins and have taken their dance styles through to today. Sequence dancing has taken on the same rhythms from the ballroom such as Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Rumba, Cha Cha, Samba, Jive or Swing. Some of the sequences dances to name, just a few, Georgella Blues, Saunter Together, Glen Roy Foxtrot, Georgella Blues, Mayfair Quickstep, Melody Foxtrot, Ragtime Swing, Rumba One.

There are many places around Australia to learn all these dances, one particular non profit organization is the Ulladulla District Dance Group Inc. This organization has been going now for more than 30 years in the Ulladulla south coast NSW area. They have been successful in promoting the best and most attended sequence ball (held in last May) in NSW and on the south coast. Many couples drive long distances to enjoy this great night out and spend the weekend in this beautiful town and catch up with all their friends from Canberra, Sydney and even Bega. Ulladullla is a famous fishing town it’s beautiful harbour and friendly people make it a great get away for dancers to visit for the weekend after they dance their feet off at this fabulous dance ball.

Other activities include a Friday night class before the big event, this gives many people time to chat up on there busy lives before the big night. The attendance has been stronger than ever since it started more than 10 years ago, with great music from a great band and organised with the best leadup work, which is why so many people to repeatedly book every year.

You can scout around in all cities for dance studios that teach these styles, your local area may have a studio. They may also include other styles of dance and this is quite common because of the variety people demand. Every studio may offer different styles so it’s best to contact them before making any commitments, each business will have different priced dance programs. Enjoy!

david jones
http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/where-to-learn-old-time-sequence-and-new-vogue-dancing-1239696.html

Dance has been an important part of rituals, celebrations and entertainment since before the birth of human civilization. In the beginning, before we had written language to record things, the purpose of dance was often to tell stories and to pass them down to future generations.

The story of dancing in Cuba

In Cuba, as in ancient times, dance tells its own story. The passion and energy of Cuban dance reveals the strength and conviction of the Cuban people, determined to enjoy life despite ‘la lucha’ (the struggle) of living in a strictly regulated country where the average monthly wage comes in at around 400 pesos – less than £10.

The richness of Cuban music and dancing also tells the story of Cuba’s melting pot of cultures. From the high-stepping flamenco brought by the Spanish settlers in the 15th century to the frenzied tribal dances of the West African slaves, dancing is in the blood of the Cuban people.

From the teenage girl in denim shorts to the cigar-seller on the street corner, Cubans are given to break into spontaneous dance steps. Furthermore, the people dancing on the streets of Havana are likely to be just as good as the professionals, because in Cuba dancing is simply a way of life.

The variety of Cuban dances

Cuba boasts a huge range of dances including classical ballet, contemporary, flamenco and folk dancing. But it is the partnered routines that appeared in Havana dancehalls between the 1920s and the 1950s – Salsa, rumba, mambo and cha-cha-cha – that can be seen in every Cuban bar, club and street. Of these, Salsa is the most popular dance internationally.

Since the name ‘Salsa’ (it’s Spanish for ’sauce’) was coined, Salsa dancing has exploded in popularity in Latin America and across the world. Salsa dancing classes are now hugely popular but to really get into the swing of it a Salsa holiday in Cuba itself is a must.

Tips for Cuban Salsa dancing

If you do take yourself on a Cuban holiday, you’ll have the unique experience of watching Cubans Salsa dancing. It sometimes appears that by some genetic aberration they have been born with super flexible joints, defying physics to carry out all the complex manoeuvres they have integrated into the dancing. Their remarkable twisting body movements and natural sense of rhythm will dazzle you.

If you have the right technique, Cuban Salsa is easier to learn than many other forms of dance. The basic footwork is a fairly simple walking motion, pausing every fourth beat, and there are some six basic steps you can follow to make sure you’re on the right tracks.

1 Relax

To dance Cuban Salsa well it is important not to rush, but to relax into the steps. Movements should be precise and deliberate in addition to being flowing and smooth.

2 Walk with purpose

Salsa dancing involves a continual circular motion. Couples walk around each other with an imaginary axis between them. This makes turns look smooth and effortless. Walking gives time to untangle your arms after each turn.

3 Have confidence in your lead

The leader (usually the man) should have constant tension in his arms, while his hands guide his Salsa dancing partner around the floor. There is no need to clamp onto each other’s hands, only to use the right amount of tension to provide a leading signal.

4 Be flexible when following

In order to follow well, ladies should try to match the tension of their partner. The exception to this is when arms need to be relaxed and flexible to complete arm-twisting Salsa moves without injury!

5 Keep balanced when you spin

The key to all the spectacular spins in Salsa is not to lose your balance. One way to do it is by spotting while you spin – focusing on one spot at each turn – an age-old dance technique.

6 Use your body

In Salsa dancing, ladies should make use of their body and be sensual, playful and creative. This can involve some creative arm movements, going with what feels right and basically showing off a bit. Enjoy!

Emma Lelliott
http://www.articlesbase.com/travel-articles/a-stepbystep-guide-to-cuban-salsa-285297.html

Dancing to the music is a great idea in shape and staying healthy. Done regularly, it may be a great form of exercise, it burn calories, improves coordination, builds endurance and most important, it is fun. Beyond that, dancing to the music is also less likely to be dull in comparison with other activities, because there are always new steps to learn and the music is motivation.

Most health clubs offer some types of dance exercise program or class. Sample a few types of classes to your positive style, and music teacher. Classes with a start and end dates are best if you want to be on equal level with other student. Do not expect as a pro in the first session. Part of the fun is learning new steps and be challenged to your body in new, unknown and possible ways.

Approach each class with with a positive image of the spirit and know that you improve your health and pleasure, not with each other to win a dance contest or as the best in the room. Some lessons are focused around the couples’ dances, as the ballroom. These lessons are a perfect opportunity with your boyfriend, girlfriend or spouse. If you do not have someone to the class with you, do not worry. Many classes will surprise you with a different partner every week. And that is an excellent way to meet new people.

You will probably have a favorite style of dancing to the music but do not forget to mix it up. A ballet class is to work your body other than hip-hop, Irish or jazz dance class, and disable the classes is the best way to the health benefits, while reducing the risk of damage from overuse same muscle groups.

Some dancing to the music lesson will focus on building the music stamina and strength, but dancing is usually heart. So extra strength in your week, so your muscles get stronger and healthy body.

If you are unable to join the classes, then you buy a volume of video CDs to learn a number of major steps. With steps to move guide, who can quickly learn the joy of dancing to the music tune. It will be fun and health until the next dance music. An online on the internet, you may find useful volume guide CDs.

With dancing to the music, you guide your body movement to the rhythmic tune of music. It is a joy of happiness run up your body in such a fun way. Help to build your body and mind to stay in good shape.

Check this out on the website and may of good help to you.

charles chan
http://www.articlesbase.com/aerobics-articles/dancing-to-the-music-a-great-fun-way-to-keep-fit-and-healthy-477599.html

Group salsa lessons are a fun, social, and affordable way to learn how to salsa dance. Some group classes can be as large as 40 people or as small as 5. The average class size at 15-20 people and oftentimes students are required to rotate partners through out the evening. If you’re a guy, this helps you learn to lead different women. If you’re girl, this helps you learn how to follow different leading styles. Students who take group classes on regular basis also form friendships and there is no better place to meet a potential dance partner then in a salsa class.

People who get a lot out of group salsa classes are usually very good at following directions and well coordinated. People who are active in martial arts, yoga, sports, or other forms of dancing usually can follow their dance instructor with relative ease. On the other hand, people who are poorly coordinated may find themselves struggling to keep up in their first few classes.

That is the unavoidable downside of group lessons. They are a one size fits all solution. I teach a weekly salsa class in Times Square that ranges from 15-30 people. I have to teach at a pace that accommodates everyone in the room. Therefore some people will feel the class is too fast while others may feel the class is too slow. The other downside of group salsa lessons is the instructor can’t give you individual attention. That means if your executing a move incorrectly, the instructor may not even notice because he/she is watching the entire class and not just you. Having that critical eye focused only upon you is why you may want to consider spending a little more for private salsa instruction.

Private salsa lesssons usually cost some where in the range of $80 – $100. It’s about 4x more than what you would pay for a group class. On the other hand, students who take private lessons learn at a much quicker pace and can cut your learning curve in half. The instructor has his/her attention focused on teaching you and you only which will prevent you from picking up bad habits. Most people pick up bad habits with out knowing it. Small things like not being wary of your posture or moving your hips the wrong way take a very long time to unlearn once they have become a habit. A good salsa instructor will keep you on the right path and weed out any potential bad habits at the first sign. Thus a student who wants to have a more refined technique and accelerate their learning ought to take private salsa lessons.

Private salsa lessons are also the way to go if you are not some one who learns well in large groups. The most important thing for an absolute beginner is to have a proper foundation. People who are new to salsa and have a below average sense of coordination may find themselves struggling to keep up in a group class. If this is the case, consider a few one on one sessions at a pace that you feel comfortable with. You can take group classes once you have developed a good grasp of the basics. The great thing about private salsa classes is that they can be custom tailored to meet your needs. You may want to take private lessons for any of these reasons listed: 1. You’re an absolute beginner and need things broken down more. 2. You already know the basics but find yourself unable to move past a sticking point. 3. You want to further refine your technique beyond what your group classes can offer.

The one main benefit that group classes have over private lessons is the opportunity to practice with many different dance partners. Learning to follow and learning to lead is a skill that develops over time through experience. One must practice with many different people in order to gain the experience necessary to develop this ability. I believe the optimal way to learn is to take both private and group lessons hand in hand. This gives you the critical one on one attention along with regular partner-work experience.

- Todd Chen

Todd
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/private-salsa-lessons-vs-group-salsa-lessons-706767.html

The first time is always the hardest and even though private instruction is just that, private, group classes are not really that intimidating.  Most people you’ll find in these sorts of groups are extremely encouraging and friendly. However if you’re really shy then private instruction is the way to go. With all the TV coverage it’s really got people saying I want to do that.

Sequence and New Vogue dancing is easy to learn. You start with easy ones and then progress to the more difficult amalgamations.  Since the exposure of dance in the media dancing in all types and styles has really taken off. Classes have increased dramatically and people want more. There are over one hundred sequence dances and more are being created and published via the UK, finally reaching the Australian shores. Here in Australia we have tended to take on British dancing from our early origins and have taken their dance styles through to today. Sequence dancing has taken on the same rhythms from the ballroom such as Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Quickstep, Viennese Waltz, Rumba, Cha Cha, Samba, Jive or Swing. Some of the sequences dances to name, just a few, Georgella Blues, Saunter Together, Glen Roy Foxtrot, Georgella Blues, Mayfair Quickstep, Melody Foxtrot, Ragtime Swing, Rumba One.

There are many places around Australia to learn all these dances, one particular non profit organization is the Ulladulla District Dance Group Inc. This organization has been going now for more than 30 years in the Ulladulla south coast NSW area. They have been successful in promoting the best and most attended sequence ball (held in last May) in NSW and on the south coast. Many couples drive long distances to enjoy this great night out and spend the weekend in this beautiful town and catch up with all their friends from Canberra, Sydney and even Bega. Ulladullla is a famous fishing town it’s beautiful harbour and friendly people make it a great get away for dancers to visit for the weekend after they dance their feet off at this fabulous dance ball.

Other activities include a Friday night class before the big event, this gives many people time to chat up on there busy lives before the big night. The attendance has been stronger than ever since it started more than 10 years ago, with great music from a great band and organised with the best leadup work, which is why so many people to repeatedly book every year.

You can scout around in all cities for dance studios that teach these styles, your local area may have a studio. They may also include other styles of dance and this is quite common because of the variety people demand. Every studio may offer different styles so it’s best to contact them before making any commitments, each business will have different priced dance programs. Enjoy!

david jones
http://www.articlesbase.com/art-and-entertainment-articles/where-to-learn-old-time-sequence-and-new-vogue-dancing-1239696.html

Nothing drives a man wilder than a sultry striptease by a sensuous woman. This video will teach every woman– regardless of age, size or experience—how she can discover her own seductive power and build her sexual self-confidence. Sinclair’s expert instructor and her class of 8 women learn how to perform with grace, style and confidence. Watch in explicit detail as the women put the moves on their real life partners. Included with this new DVD set is a CD (35 minutes) of the original music score from the video.

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