Just remembered that I posted an article about pole dancing some time back and thought I’d give an update that since then I have actually tried pole dancing!
In February this year I did a 6-week beginners course and thoroughly enjoyed myself.
I can now report first-hand that it truly is great for fitness and building strength (without bulking)…I have a friend who I also Salsa with who actually now teaches pole, and she was saying last week that she put on a few kgs of muscle when she first started! It may sound of-putting to some ladies who are afraid of muscle, but for the record this friend and all others I’ve met look very lean and toned - still feminine for sure.
I was told I did really well - I think the dancing background definitely helped me pick things up easier and look more graceful when doing the moves, but there were also absolute beginners (never danced before in their lives) in the class that had great fun. I was very keen to start the next class called “Get Vertical” but as I already dance 5 nights a week, the timetable clashed with other classes so I’m having a term off - hoping to resume next term - if not with Get Vertical, perhaps with the “Pol-r-tease” class which is a strength and conditioning class based around the pole.
Tags: Dance & fitness, pol-arise, Pole dancing
So as usual another night filled with dancing!
Earlier in the evening I had a Argentinean Tango class…this is the newest genre to be introduced to my dance education - my 5th class if I am correct.
With the vast majority of my dance past being in styles that are individual rather than partnered, of course having to follow someone else introduces a greater degree of unpredictability, but what makes for a greater challenge than other partnered dancing such as Salsa (I love Salsa 
is the subtlety of the man’s lead.
The connection between two dance partners in tango can make or break the dance, because if the woman can not feel the minute movements that originate from the man’s chest, she will not know which direction to move in, or where to place her weight.
When danced well it is a beautiful thing to watch…our teacher and his wife gave a demonstration last week and it was stunning - not so much a super showy piece, but charged with a level of intensity and passion that just pulls a little at your heart, making you feel just that little bit emotional (well for females at least!).
After stopping for a dinner break, I then made my way to a dance party hosted at the Newcastle University venue “The Bar on The Hill” by the Latin Society “La Pena”. It was the first one back for the year, and as expected, there was plenty of Salsa, a bit of Bachata and a splash of Merengue. The turn out was not as good as I had expected and perhaps hoped, but there were plenty of friends there, I had some great dances and it’s always nice to be able to dance to a live band.
The parties are held each month, so it’s a great opportunity to not only have fun (the primary goal), but also to keep building on skill by practicing away in a social setting.
I first started dabbling in Salsa a few years back, but it was always bits ‘n pieces / stop-start / and never in a technical, structured way. Then since about last May (2009) I have consistently been taking classes and attending social nights and some workshops (e.g. including ones at this years Sydney Salsa Congress…at which I took some videos of the workshop classes, so I will have to post some soon). Three weeks ago I started another Salsa class that covers a lot more technical detail and is structured - because I’m really enjoying Salsa dancing and want to keep improving to become really good. In short - I am loving it, and can already tell its making a difference. I’m finding that I am following much better when doing complex sequences with more experienced dancers, and when helping others (I assist a little in teaching some basics to new beginners) I think I am giving better tips.
So anyway, tonight was another opportunity to have fun and practice and I think I had a few awesome dances.
But now, I am getting a little bit tired and have lots of potentially draining activities planned for the weekend (as well as dancing, I also love keeping active and fitness in general) so better get some rest.
Will spill my thoughts on more dance topics very soon, and as always welcome your comments and/or feedback.
Have you ever been so concerned about getting something “perfect” or “right” that you just never made it happen? You spent all your time and energy trying to figure out the “best way” to do that thing or achieve that goal that you never actually took action (or sufficient action) to move toward it?
Most people have encountered this at some stage in one or more aspects of their lives and in varying degrees. I confess that I have been in this situation on more than one occasion…Yes, in regards to my pursuit of dance (which I will elaborate on at some future time) but also regarding this very blog! I’ve umm’d and arhh’d and procrastinated since starting it some time ago - trying to figure out exactly what to write about and how to present information that will be of value to you, that it has gotten in the way of me just being myself and being honest…and resulting in infrequent posts.
This is not a long post - mainly just to let you know what I’ve been thinking and to advise that The Dancers Portal is going to be different from now on - to beginning with I’m just going to share…It may sound a little self indulgent but please know that my intention is just to develop a little bit of a relationship with you, so that you can get to know me and feel comfortable sharing your stories and ideas for what content you would like The Dancers Portal to cover.
I really want to grow and develop this blog and the associated web page so that it is a place of education and inspiration for all types of dancers - as well as a great reference for link to other research and great dance related events, competitions and products, so please always feel welcome to leave comments.
Look forward to talking with you all again soon.
With each new day there is another opportunity to dance, so until we have our next encounter on The Dancers Portal be sure to get those bodies moving!!
Have you always wanted to be a better dancer? Do you have a big social event that you need to dance at? Whatever the reason if you are wanting to improve your dance skills then you need to look into taking some dance lessons.
Prior to signing up you need to be aware that there is a cost for dance lessons. You should do a little homework first to be certain it is what you are looking for and what you are getting into.
There is important information you should be knowledgeable about before you sign up. Check if there is a contract with the studio or company and if for a specific length of time. Also check what their payment plan is. Inquire if payment is by individual lessons or one monthly fee.
The next decision you need to make is what type of dance you want to learn and have an interest in. There are big variations such as, for example, if ballet is more to your liking then it is a good guess that hip hop is not to your liking and vice versa. If classical music is more up your alley then you should focus more on ballet or ballroom dancing. For those with more modern tastes there is belly dancing or modern dance.
Your skill level is another determining factor when it comes to dance lessons. If you choose a class that is above what you are capable of, then you will only get frustrated and lose interest in learned. Before signing up for lessons, be sure to as the instructor or school about the different classes available for various skill levels and then choose accordingly. How long each class session lasts should also be taken into consideration, because if you are out of shape then a 90 minute class may be too hard to handle and instead a 45 minute class is more suitable.
Spend some time investigating your potential instructor. To truly get the most out of your dance lessons you will want to be sure that your instructor knows what they are talking about. Most dance studios can provide biographies of their teachers to help give you an idea of their educational and professional backgrounds. Additionally, you will want to make sure that you feel comfortable with your instructor. See if you can meet with them ahead of time to be sure that your personalities mesh. If that is not possible see if you can either sit in on a class or take a trial class to get a sense of their teaching style.
For more thoughtful reading about ballet Fairfax VA, please visit this blog with posts on dance Fairfax VA.
Tags: arts, ballet, dance, dancing, entertainment, hobbies, kids, learn to dance, performance, teens
Tango, also known as the dance of love, is certainly one of the most sensual and passionate dances out there. It is characterized by sharp and clipped movements, a close hold, and its staccato elements. Today, tango is loved and danced all around the world. In this article we will take a peek into the history of tango.
Tango originated at the end of 19th century, somewhere around 1880, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was born in the working-class neighborhoods and was very popular in brothels where the girls use it to entertain their clients. From there it soon moved to more established communities and into dancing houses.
In the early 20th century, tango spread throughout the world. In 1909 it was danced at the first world dance competition in Paris. After 1912, it became the craze of the dancing world.
Where did the word Tango come from? There are many theories and assumptions. The most probable is the one that supports the idea that it comes from Portuguese word tangere or Latin word tango which in both cases translates - to touch.
Today, many different styles of tango exists: Tango Argentino, Ballroom Tango, Tango Oriental, Tango Canyengue, Tango Liso, Tango Salon, Tango Orillero, Tango Apilado, Tango Nuevo, Finnish Tango, Chinese tango, and so on. The two main styles are Argentine and American ballroom style.
The basic tango is not so difficult to learn. The basic step consist of five steps taken to the 8 counts of music. The rhythm is slow, slow, quick, quick, slow. Tango is danced to music written in 2/4 or 4/4 timing. It’s usually 4/4 - 4 beats to a bar of music.
Tango is certainly one of the most passionate and sensual dances. Today, it is danced all over the world by people from all walks of life. From the brothels of Buenos Aires to worldwide popularity it sure came a long way.
Some say that dancing tango is like making love. If you would like to learn it, see tango instruction video. Also take a look at the tango dance history.
Tags: arts, ballroom, dance, Dance for Children, dancing, entertainment, hobbies, Latin American dance, latin dance, recreation, tango
Jive is exciting, fast, and very energetic partner dance, characterized by its bouncy movements. There are a lot of kicks and flicks used in Jive. It’s also quite energy consuming and therefore one of the most effective ways to get and stay in shape. Not to mention it’s loads of fun.
Today, Jive is danced and enjoyed throughout the world. In Ballroom dancing, it’s one of the five dances in the International Latin American competitions. In this article we’re going to take a brief tour through the history of Jive.
Jive is a 20th century dance. It evolved in 1930s and 1940s in the U.S. from early swing dances like Boogie-Woogie, Lindy Hop, Blues Swing, and Jitterbug. Many dance moves like underarm turns and swivels show this connection.
During the World War II American G.I’s brought the dance with them to Europe. It soon became very popular, especially among the young. It was new, fresh, and thrilling, although it didn’t appeal to many conservative dancers.
After the war the French took the dance, adapted it a bit and mixed in some of the traditional Latin moves. The dance that we know today as Modern Jive was born. Although it’s not of Latin-American origin, it became an official international competition Latin dance in 1968.
Jive is usually danced to music written in 4/4 time (four beats to a measure). The rhythm is 1, 2, 3 & 4, 5 & 6. Music is often fast. The good thing about modern Jive is that it can be danced to almost any style of music - latin, rock, pop - as long as it has a steady beat.
The basic steps for Jive consist of two triple steps and a rock step. A rock step refers to a weight change from one foot to the other.
Nowadays, modern Jive is popular throughout the world. And why shouldn’t it be? It looks great, it can be danced to a wide variety of music, and it’s fun. So put on your dancing shoes and go jiving.
If you too want to learn how to Jive, take a look at Jive steps.
Tags: balroom, dance, Dance for Children, dancing, entertainment, fitness, hobbies, jive, Latin American dance, modern jive, recreation, sport
Pole dancing to some is a mans activity done at a local bar or tavern after payday. To other it is intense exercise, recreation fitness and even meditation and relaxation. If you ask people ” what is the first thing you think of when you see pole dancing?” obviously for many it would be where the dancer’s give some entertainment to gentlemen as they watch her undress slowly. But pole-dancing is actually a sport, and can be used as an exercise too. Pole dancing is many different functions, appearances and options to many.
In order to pole dance you should have strength and flexibility, but you will also have endurance. It is more of an art that combines spins, and other movements that can be noticed as gymnastics. Being used as a form of not only aerobic exercise but also anaerobic.
Perhaps it is an activity that many have always considered to be more sexual in nature, but really it’s a great way to have your body exercised. Look into those pole dancing classes that are offered in your local area, and try this way that you can get into great shape.
Pole dancing is perhaps the new exercise of the year, and one of the best ways that you can get into shape. Try it out for yourself and see how it goes.
Many people are just amazed when they discover that pole dancing in 2009 / 2010 is both a clean and safe sport. Its a safe , clean, fun and socially acceptable social activity which is great exercise to develop good health and stamina. What could be more fun with your buddies and friends.
Perhaps it is time to look into and enquire as to whether this trendy new pastime of pole dancing is available locally in your metro regional area and areas. At the worst , you can always order or obtain pole dancing videos. For those who are not as adventurous , videos offer a private yet recreational fitness and dance alternative.
Tags: Dance for Children
Another nice thing to look for is whether the school permits family involvement. For something like dancing it is nice for the family to be involved. It boosts the morale of the young student and gives them a desire to do better. Dancing is often a community art in that you can easily share it with others. Performing is one way to share but getting the family involved is even better.
There are many reasons for families to get involved and support a young student:
Sometimes it’s hard for a dancer to practice on their own and a family member who can help out, or even partner them, can be a huge benefit. This can be a huge amount of fun for the family and even get a few more people interested in learning dance. It’s difficult to learn new steps and skills so the more help a dancer can get the better.
Support: The frustration of young dancers can be very real as they attempt new and complex moves. Stress management becomes an important factor in any dancer’s career management and who better to offer support to a young dancer than their own family. Working out tension can be as simple as listening when someone is thinking out loud.
Sharing success and sometimes failure is a big part of learning dance. Families play a big factor in a dancer’s life and tend to ride the roller coaster with them. The rewards can be incredible and many parents and siblings experience vicariously through the dancer in the family. Events are shared by everyone and the enjoyment of seeing a dance production or competition come to life cannot be described. No matter what the age of the dancer is.
Pupils of dance schools often request that their family, especially parents and grandparents, come along to events and see how they are progressing. It’s also a great opportunity to see the student’s teacher in action and get to know their feelings on how the young pupil is doing. There are many aspects of dance to be enjoyed by all of the family.
A family atmosphere is difficult to fake. Basically, if it feels right then it probably is right. Classrooms can be intimidating for everyone and often leaves a child feeling overwhelmed and intimidated. Schools that have a warm, family atmosphere work hard to create it. Seeing it is as simple as visiting the school and seeing it for yourself.
When students feel right at home at dance lessons they are able to learn faster and perform better. They find it easier to make friends and support one another, as well as building a strong relationship with their teacher. This sort of environment builds confidence and allows them to tackle the toughest of dance routines. A warm, friendly environment that is conducive to learning will allow them to relax and feel confident that they can do anything that is asked of them.
Tags: Dance for Children
It is extremely essential, once you are searching for the exact dance school for your child, to judge the caliber of the teaching staff. The association they make with their students will have a great impact on how your child will progress with their dance studies. A young child is to the highest degree influenced by their teachers and it is very significant for them to have an excellent relationship with their dance instructor.
Choosing the right teachers:
This can be a daunting task. You will need to be aware of your child’s needs and personality. This will let you understand the sort of teacher who will work best with them. It takes a dedicated person to be a good teacher and not everyone can do this, especially when they are dealing with small children. Here are some points to consider.
Superior relationship with students:
It takes a special quality in a teacher to build a good relationship with the students. As a parent you have to get involved and to be acquainted with your child’s instructor. Most teachers who have their students’ interests at heart are glad to meet parents and obtain an insight into their pupils. The teacher knows that this way they will be able to create a good bond with their students and give them a better-quality learning experience.
Professional guidance:
The student needs to have professional guidance or direction from their teacher. It includes helping students who are having a difficulty with some of the dance routines and skills. Each child learns a different way and a good teacher will be able to adjust to these different levels of training in their class. The teacher or instructor should ensure that students do not get bored while waiting for others to grasp the routines because some of the students learn faster and may have to wait while others catch up.
Developing individuals is a science:
The teacher ought to be attentive to notice if young students have exceptional needs. Their age will determine how many physical skills they will be able to handle and their mind set. The art of dance is a magnificent combination of physical and mental skills and the instructors must be aware of them in order to bring out the students’ potential. Professional teachers with knowledge and skill in dealing with young children will be able to do this.
Hiring professional teachers:
A lot of schools employ college students to train their younger pupils. This is a mistake as these student teachers lack the professional skills to appreciate the young pupils. As a result the standard of teaching is decreased.
It is important for teachers to be creative and know how to be flexible with their lessons. Most school’s curriculum will give the teachers a little leeway and allow them to blend entertainment and dance routines together. This will keep students from getting bored but at the same time allow them to learn dance routine and skills. You can observe classes before enrolling your child to observe the teacher’s abilities and how your child will fit in.
Tags: Dance for Children
Scanning the various options available to parents wanting to enroll their children in a good dance school can have quite a few pitfalls. It should be a ‘no brainer’, but ultimately a dance school’s curriculum can be the deciding factor in whether a child continues their dance classes or not.
Think about the sorts of challenges of training children: Training young children presents its own set of challenges. Whilst contemplating dance lessons for your child you have to be aware of the specific needs of your child concerning their age and learning abilities. When you have recognized this, you can better access a dance school curriculum and settle on one that is right for them.
Your child’s age should be taken into consideration: Many young children have short attention spans. A curriculum that blends entertainment and learning will take care of this problem and enable your child to progress at a better rate. It is important not to let a learning curriculum become long with boring dance routines that young children can not enjoy and learn from.
Boredom and frustration are also factors when teaching young children: this is very detrimental to learning. Mixing entertainment with learning helps to prevent this. It breaks up lessons into smaller portions enabling a young child to learn better. With a fun curriculum the children will be able to focus on the dance routines and not get bored and frustrated.
Developing a student’s confidence is all about letting the student realize their own potential as they go. This is the same for most things in children. By building your child’s confidence through gradual realization of their own abilities, you’re not just gearing them for success in dance but in life in general. That’s good enough reason alone not to trust your child’s early development to the cheapest option.
A quality dance instructor will also take the learning environment into careful consideration. It needs to be suitable for both the needs of the students and the teacher- not just the cheapest hall or room that could be found. Things like temperature, noise, toilets, parking and security are just some of the factors that need to be considered- especially when creating a comfortable surrounding for children.
The curriculum should include activities that are fun and will develop muscles. These activities are all done to music so that the student will develop a sense of rhythm, which is essential in dance. Activities should also include ones that encourage creativity. This will help your child to use their creative skills.
Dancing lessons should be a fun and enriching experience for your child, opening up new avenues of learning for them. Choosing the right curriculum will ensure that your child will get the most out of their dance lessons. So make sure you check out several schools before you enroll your child into a dance school, so that you can choose the best curriculum for optimum learning.
Tags: Dance for Children