What about a dance workout video...

[danceforlife]

I don't dance although I've always wanted to. I will NOT go to classes b/c I don't want to start out and embarrassing. My friend recommended I look into a program she saw on TV named Deante Dance. I went to the website (deantedance.com) and it looks like a progressive program taught by Karen Gayle (has anyone heard of her?). Even though it claims to be a workout can I use it to begin my (personal) dancing career??

 

[waltzgirl]

Welcome to DF!

What kind of dancing do you want to do? This forum is focused on partner dancing, so that's what we generally most about. I took a peek at the website you mentioned and the workout there seemed to be all solo dancing.

While a workout video can certainly get you moving, help you develop the muscles you need for dancing, and give you a feel for moving to music, there really is no substitute for going to a class (or private lessons) that will teach you to dance. Remember, in a beginner class, everyone is just starting--and probably feels uncomfortable and embarrassed, too!

Good luck in your dance journey!

 

[danceforlife]

Thanks for your response! I ended up ordering the deante video (you made a good point about devloping necessary "dance" muscles) but am also going to look into classes. You're right that in a beginner's class everyone is new so I'll just need to face my group fears! I'll update on my progress. BTW, what dance styles (tango, waltz, etc.) did you start off learning? Do you know if classes generally incorporate a few different styles or do I need to choose one type of dance to begin.. what would you recommend? Please forgive me for being so "green" but I'm dying to dance!!!

 

[Sagitta]

I would see what is common in your area and go with that. When I started swing was really popular and so I started with that. This allowed me many opportunities to go out dancing. Then I actually switched to salsa as I fell in love with street latin dancing and luckily for me that grew in popularity so more dance opportunities.

 

[Sinead]

Danceforlife... pleeeeaaase post about Deante Dance when you get it and tell us what it is like!! Doesn't it look great? I am curious if it is very slow and controlled lower level cardio movements. That's what it looks like in the video clips of the actual workouts and it appeals to me, but the clips of the "infomercial group" is more fast paced harder cardio, and I wonder which it really is. THANKS!