Dance class etiquette

After being away from salsa classes for a couple of weeks, I finally managed to go. I was so excited to be back, as anyone who has seen me dance will tell you it is my favourite pastime. So there I was dancing with my cousin, when the instructor called out "Change partners!" and just like that I nearly died of suffication, as I found myself in the arms of Mr. Stinky. Mr. Stinky a.k.a. the guy who has no life, no friends, and apparenlty no shower and thinks he can pull off dancing. Mr. Stinky also thinks that he is DA BOMB and will continue to pull you closer and 'teach' you how to do it 'right', while you are squirming to get away from him and unhold your breath.

Thus, I present to you dancing class etiquette rules for current and wannabe dancers:

Rule 1: Take a bloody shower ( no, not a week before)
Rule 2: Deodrant is your friend
Rule 3: Wear soft, light, comfy shoes.
Rule 4: When the instructor is demonstarting a move, watch and wait until they are done to try it out.
Rule 5: When dancing with a person for the first time, smile and introduce yourself. Be friendly.
Rule 6: Do not scratch your armpit, ass, nose etc. and then extend your hands to your partner. A la Mr. Stinky EWWWW!
Rule 7: If a move is not working out, do not automatically blame your partner. It may actually be YOUR mistake. Ask the instructor to point out what you are doing wrong instead.
Rule 8: Remember to listen to your partners requests. They may be getting tired of repeating the same move.
Rule 9: If you sweat, use a napkin, not your hands. Do not under any circumstances think your dripping sweat is sexy to your dancing partner.
Rule 10: When finished dancing with your partner, THANK THEM.
Rule 11: When finished with the class, THANK the instructor.
Rule 12: Remember, breath mints are your other friend.

If you are a wannabe, I know it seems a bit daunting. It takes quite a bit of confidence to take that first step and go to your first class. Things that come to mind are, "I will make a fool of myself", "I have no rhythm", " I will be the odd one out". But trust me, everyone there is doing their own thing and had to take that first step to be where they are today. If it makes you feel more comfortable, go to your first class as a spectator. You will see there are a whole bunch of beginners learning very simple basic steps. Next you can take your first class. Generally, you will be able to dance to a song, after 3 classes. Most importantly, relax, have fun and don't take yourself so seriously. Remember, there is nothing sexier than a dancer. SOO SEXY!!