Dance Etiquette

So you’ve finally made it to the dance floor, feeling comfortable and confident, and knowledgeable about the dance styles that you’ve spent hours learning. Now what? Even in the dancing world, there is a form of etiquette all good dancers should abide by, though not many people know them. But don’t worry; we’ve got your back. There are some simple guidelines everyone should remember when going out to dance.

When asking for a dance, gentlemen, stick to something traditional. “May I have this dance?” “Care to dance?” “Would you like to dance?” are all good ways to get a lady on the floor. Avoid repeatedly asking the same partner to dance with you, unless she requests it. Dance with different people to improve the social dynamics of a dance and become a better leader. Ladies, don’t be afraid to go out there and ask a guy, or several, to dance with you as well.

Declining a dance should only be done if you don’t know the dance, you need to take a rest, or you promised the dance to someone else. This goes for ladies and gentlemen. If you decline a dance, this means sitting out the whole song. And don’t get discouraged if you’re declined a dance. Everyone needs a break once in a while.

Gentlemen, escort your ladies out on the dance floor to an area where she won’t have to worry about backing into somebody. Ladies, let yourself be lead out to a spot your partner feels comfortable and confident. Along with this rule comes sharing the dance floor. Guys, take care that your partner doesn’t bump into anybody, and ladies, take small steps and minimize style.

An important part of dance is your demeanor. Both ladies and gentlemen should smile and make eye contact with your partner every so often throughout the dance. Be warm and positive, even if you’re in a bad mood, or you don’t personally want to. Your partner is out to have a good time, and you should be too. Smile and be friendly. Your eyes should remain focused on your partner.

If your partner is on a different level than you are (Or learned to dance somewhere else), don’t worry. Dance on their level and be patient. Guys, start with simple figures and work your way up. Girls, remember that the learning process can be challenging, and don’t back lead. Remember the learning process can be challenging.

Avoid teaching on the dance floor during a social dance. Do what the both of you can do, and have fun with it. Unsolicited teaching can make your partner feel uncomfortable, and takes the fun out of dancing. At the end of a dance, gentlemen, take your partner back to where you asked her to dance. Don’t just leave her on the dance floor. Both of you should thank each other for the dance.

Follow these simple guidelines on the dance floor, and it’ll improve everyone’s experience for the night. The biggest thing is to have fun while dancing. If you feel good, you’ll look good. For even more confidence, check out Dance FX Studios to learn to dance something different, or polish up your technique.