How Do I Become a Good Dancer?

By Sheena Larsen 

 As a matter of fact, to get good at ANY endeavor in life, you have to go through some type of discomfort.  Were Frankie Martinez, Burju, and Eddie Torres born great dancers?  No (well, maybe Frankie was). They all made themselves into amazing dancers. Behind every great dancer are stories of failures and disappointments.  The problem is that we only see the finished products. Salsa dancing is a skill, just like learning how to play the piano or program on a computer.  Many of us are far from being the incredible dancers we would like to be.  But if we stay committed to improving our dancing, even in the face of perceived obstacles and disappointments, we will taste the sweetness of victory.

I would like to share some pointers on improving your dancing that have helped me in my progression as a dancer.

•  Take A Class.

Whether it’s a group class or a private lesson, learning from someone who knows more than you is invaluable.

• Take A Class In A Dance Form You Know Nothing About.

This is a great way to get out of your comfort zone.  Though you may be good at one style of dance, it is a humbling experience to realize you have no clue what you’re doing in another style.  It also gives you an appreciation for the vast array of dance styles and dancers out there, especially those who are committed to excelling at their craft.

• Don’t Let Your Ego Get In The Way.

Keep your ego in check.  Dancing shouldn’t be about who is better than who, or who dances on1 as opposed to on2.  Dancing becomes far less enjoyable when you allow your ego to get involved.

• Set Goals.

If you have a specific time line for what you want to do, chances of accomplishing it are much higher.  Make realistic goals for yourself.  Learn one new shine or combination or movement per day, week or month.  Whatever works for you.

• Feel The Music.

There is a noticeable difference between someone who is dancing just the steps and someone who is feeling the music.  Music is powerful and can saturate your soul.  And once it does, anything you produce will be good, whether you are considered a great dancer or not.

• Practice, Practice, Practice!

 Enough said.

KEEP DANCING!