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Frequently Asked Questions

If you're new to Salsa Bristol or Salsa in general, below are some Frequently Asked Questions about Salsa Bristol and attending our Latin dance classes and courses. If you don't see your question answered here, feel free to get in touch.

Are Salsa Bristol dance classes and courses for any age?

Yes, our dance classes and courses are suitable for anyone aged 18 or over.

Do I need a Partner / Can I come on my own?

The simple answer is that you can come on your own or with a partner, or even bring a friend! Classes are structured so that people swap or rotate partners during the lesson at frequent intervals, so you will always have someone to dance with. This is normal in Salsa and most styles of partner dance for many reasons. For example, it provides a great icebreaker and allows you to meet people you may wish to dance with at Latin dance parties.

Everyone needs to learn to 'lead' or 'follow' different individuals, and this starts in the classroom. As many people come alone, it gives them a chance to dance with someone.

I've never danced before and have two left feet, or I'm worried I will look foolish.

It's what we're here for! We all have to start somewhere, and while some people in the class may have done the course before, everyone there will have been in the same boat as you, so don't worry if you think someone else is doing better!

We will start at the very beginning and will go over/revisit and build up the various moves over eight weeks, providing you with a basic set of moves that you can build a routine on and take to the dance floor.

Don't be afraid to ask questions during the class or to pull one of us aside after the class to ask for help. If you are struggling with something and need a little extra help, let us know, and we can go over things before the class starts.

We only ask that you don't give up after one or two lessons! It can sometimes be frustrating - give yourself a chance to learn!

Can I start any week?

As our beginners' course is structured over eight weeks and each week builds upon the previous week's class, we generally do not accept students with no dance experience after week three as you'll struggle to catch up. We do sometimes take students after this point if they have the aptitude or some experience in the past with Salsa or with other styles of dance.

If the course has already started, please ask us for advice. Courses start anew directly after the end of each eight-week course, so it's never too long to wait to start from the beginning of the next course (except for the Christmas break).

With our improvers and intermediate levels of classes, you can drop in at any time. 

What happens if I miss a week?

We go over moves again every week, so you should still be able to catch up. However, if you miss a week or two, pop in early when you next come in, and we will go over any moves you may have missed. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. (we are often able to see you at an earlier time, but please check with us first!).

Who will be there?

We are lucky in that we have students from all walks of life. The age range of students is varied, as is their shape, size and ability. The average group will have people aged from their 20s to their 50s, with exceptions at either end.

What clothes and shoes should I wear?

Clothes:

Light, comfortable clothes are recommended, and a change of top may be advisable, more so in hot weather and if you tend to sweat a lot (don't worry if you do, this is common).

Tight skirts or other clothing that restrict leg and arm movement should be avoided.

Shoes:

With our beginners' classes, there are no special requirements for the first few weeks. However, trainers and other types of shoes with "grippy" rubber soles should be avoided, especially after week four, as they can make turns and some other moves difficult to achieve. Shoes with a harder or leather sole are advisable. 

As you progress and move up from beginners to higher levels and do more dancing, we recommend definitely getting a pair (or three) of dance shoes at this stage (and they can be bought online for as little as £20, although we'd recommend spending a little more if you can). 

Will I be fit enough?

People of all shapes and sizes from all walks of life attend Salsa classes and courses. If you think you may have a problem for any reason, please consult your doctor before enrolling (as you would with any form of exercise). People with average fitness will be fine, and Salsa can help with specific physical disabilities.

What is meant by "Leader"/"Lead" and "Follower"/"Follow"?

Salsa is what's known as a partner dance, in which two people are dancing together. With this in mind, one person decides what moves to do during the dance (or "leads" the dance) and the other person, the follower, follows. 

A note on hygiene

Please be aware that you will be in close contact with other people, will get hot, and will most likely sweat. With this in mind, please be mindful of your hygiene and where possible, we advise you to shower and use a decent deodorant before attending any Salsa (or other dance) class. If you cannot shower, we have toilets where you can get cleaned up beforehand.

This is rarely a problem, but it does sometimes crop up.

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