Everyone has their own motives for taking up classes. I was bored, and looking for something to do.
I’m really glad I did, not just because I now have an arsenal of latin dance moves at my disposal. I’ve also increased the size of my small social circle, and it includes more than bearded men (although there’s nothing wrong with that!).
I also found a follower who I liked so much, I picked her up and took her home. She’s still there now – of her own free will, of course!
If I could email my past self, I’d definitely tell myself about the outrageous amount of fun and great people I was missing out on.
Especially during times that I was single. When I was breaking the ice in King Chicken in the early hours, or eating cake in front of a game console.
4 Reasons Why You Might consider dating a dancer
There are plenty of reasons why you might consider finding your next date within the salsa scene.
Great Atmosphere
These nights have a good atmosphere and positive vibe. Taking part is almost compulsory. Good for wall flowers, and those with an aversion to the lurkers.
You know the one
There’s something about meeting a room full of smiling, dancing people rather than mingling with men slumped over pints or shouting over house music.
Money Matters
I’ll address the elephant in the room, or… blog post.
I’ll make the assumption that if you are a lady, you’ll be looking for a man with a job.
Classes and socials are rarely free, so most of the clientèle have some disposable income to throw around.
Time To Impress
No-one likes to be kept waiting. At least you know a dancer will have good…
…
… timing.
Tortured puns aside, if you can find someone with the motivation to turn out and turn up then you’re already on the right track.
Postures and Posteriors
Not everyone is going to look like Patrick Swayze. You will, however, have a better chance of meeting someone with a dancer’s body at a dance class.
Sat on pavement outside a kebab shop after a dozen pints is not only bad posture but also the waistline. I have seen some young people burn off a bit of the kebab by throwing their shoes at the local police force or scrapping.
More Social
Dancers tend to be more outgoing and social so you’ll be less likely to endure awkward silences. It’s also helps that the class will pair you up in the world’s easiest ice breaker, and any dead air can be filled either by watching the other dancers or joining in yourselves.
Have something in common
If you manage to develop a taste for salsa, then anyone you hit it off with already have something in common with you.
Unsolicited Advice From The Internet
If you’re still reading this far, you’re probably invested. Maybe you’re mentally preparing for your next date, already plastering on the war paint. Maybe you just want to see where this article is going.
Either way here is some unsolicited advice that comes from some person on the internet. If it works for you, then I’m obviously a guru. If it does not, then it’s purely for entertainment purposes.
Don’t Schmooze At Your Regular Class
Your not in highschool anymore. The stakes are higher.
Obviously, if you are a really hardcore regular at one class, it is going to be very awkward for all concerned if you screw things up and have to endure hacky looks till one of you drop the class.
There might be a class with good instruction, but maybe not many suitable candidates to fill your vacancy. There would be a good place to learn.
There might be another class where you are not into the classes, but it draws a larger crowd. Now if it all goes pear shaped, at least you don’t have to denounce your hobby.
Dress to impress
I have been mocked a lot for my dress sense, so I’m not going to offer any advice other than maybe not wear what I used to.
Clothes that fit well, is a good starting point however!
I’ve heard heels and makeup are good if you’re wanting to meet people. I’ve got no idea what to advise the women to wear however.
Make the effort
I apologise at this point to all introverts, nerds and engineers. You may have to talk to people.
A good opening line that I used to use was “sorry for bumping into you” or “do you need some ice for your foot?”.
Do it for you
This is the most important.
If you don’t enjoy the process, you won’t enjoy the reward.
If you don’t enjoy Salsa and you meet someone at Salsa then you’re going to be resigned to dancing for the rest of your days.
At the end of the day, you’re doing this better yourself and better your life!
In Closing
Please remember to Shimmy Responsibly.