‘‘Mind, I have two left feet!”
Ballroom dance teachers say they often hear this from nervous new students—sometimes before they even learn their names. Wrapped in that phrase are insecurities: fear of failure, embarrassment, anxiety about how their partner might see them, or simply wondering how they ended up on the dancefloor at all. Well, my partner and I have been “giving it a go” and in class have found a warm welcome, a space where mistakes are part of the journey, and lots of benefits as well as a fun night out. Often rounded off with adjourning for a well-deserved visit to the local afterwards
We have also had the opportunity to take part in research by Newcastle University’s Sports and Medicine faculty into the benefits of ballroom dancing. The findings confirmed that it’s good for your body, mind, social life and your soul!
When you're in class, the art of dancing forces you to focus, blend physical and mental skills, and leave the outside world behind. It really can sweep your worries away.
Ballroom dancing is unique in that couples learn and grow together. You rely on each other, support each other, take turns to lead. It means both figuratively and literally leaning on one another.
Our teacher Sandra Smith says: “Gone are the days of the stiff, patronising instructors portrayed in old comedies like Hi-de-Hi. When dancers say they have “two left feet”, we reassure them with our usual response: “Don’t worry—we have a pile of right feet we can lend you until yours turns up.” Because truly, it doesn’t matter how good you are or how long it takes to master the Foxtrot”.
Our greatest reward is watching once-shy step onto the floor at our social events, dances, and Balls—moving with confidence, joy, and sometimes even in time! Whether their posture’s perfect or they still mix up their “other left foot,” their smiles and sense of accomplishment say it all. If we’ve helped by lending a right foot or two, we’re thrilled.”
Why not “give it a go” too and feel the benefit?
Sandra Smith & Christine Brown
Strictly Starters Limited run classes in Ponteland, Morpeth, Stannington and Tynemouth.
Further details at www.strictlystarters.com