Salsa clubs can, at first, seem quite intimidating scary places – you walk in and there’s strange music and a whole room full of people who all seem to know exactly what they’re doing…and there’s you feeling like a square peg in a round hole with not the foggiest on how to even start or where to go.  Well the good news for you is that at some point whether it be many moons ago or much more likely in the not so distant past, those people whizzing around the floor looking all flash with their stylish Latin moves were stood exactly where you are feeling exactly how you do….and no matter how good you may think they look, chances are they still feel like they don’t know what they’re doing..!

The main things to remember if you’re nervous about going to a salsa club for the first time are:

  1. Salsa dancers are by nature a very friendly breed – They may look a little serious sometime while they’re dancing, but chances are that this is just because they’re concentrating and trying to remember the moves – generally speaking we’re very friendly and happy to make new-comers welcome.  If someone kisses you on both cheeks they aren’t being forward…this is just the way that we say hello and goodbye to each other! 🙂
  2. Do your research – Find out when the beginners class is and arrive about 15 mins beforehand.  This gives you a chance to get a little comfortable and also to spot any other newbies who you can bond with over a drink while you’re waiting for the class to start.  The good news is that most if not all people in the beginners are in the same boat so you can get a great feeling of camaraderie between you and you’ll have people to chat to and dance with afterwards.
  3. Don’t worry about going alone – Going on your own is one of the most nerve-wracking things in the world, but it actually can be a great way to meet people…you’re far more approachable on your own to chat to and it can be easier to get talking to others in the class if you’re not always chatting to a buddy that you’ve come with.  If you’re worried about not knowing anyone email the organiser before you go to ask about the class times so that you can say hello when you get there, chances are they may introduce you to some of their regulars when you arrive.
  4. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to people – when you’re dancing with someone don’t be afraid to say “Hi, my name is ________”, once you know a few names of your fellow dancers the club will feel much friendlier.
  5. Don’t drink too much! – A little dutch courage is fine, so if you fancy a quick half a pint before starting then feel free, but be conscious not to overdo it as it may make remembering the moves and keeping control of your feet even harder!
  6. Don’t be afraid to ask people to dance, but don’t be put off if they turn you down – It’s very scary asking people to dance for the first time…but we were all beginners once and if people didn’t dance with us at that point we wouldn’t be where we are now.  So just go up to your chosen dancer, ask politely if they’d like to dance and if they say yes, then just tell them you’re a beginner – most people won’t mind.  If they do turn you down  then don’t take it personally – salsa dancing is tiring business, and there’s a good chance they’ll be in need of a drink, a toilet break or just a bit of a rest, so just smile, say “No problem” and find someone else.
  7. If you don’t find that the club you try is the right fit for you, try somewhere else – Salsa clubs are like anything, there are different sorts different teaching styles and different people have different preferences.  If the first one to try isn’t quite for you then don’t let it put you off…just try another one and see how you get on!
  8. Just have fun – Salsa is a great hobby which is fun and a good way to meet new people, so go with the intention of having a good time and you’ll be just fine!

If you’re in the Guildford area and fancy giving it a go – check out the Sunday Salsa in Guildford classes at the Keystone – they’re very friendly and a great place to test the water if you’re a bit nervous!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?tab=3#!/pages/Guildford-United-Kingdom/Sunday-Salsa-in-Guildford/109004542465847

Next time: What to wear to a salsa club.