I want to become a good dancer but I'm clueless.

Yan · Joined: 06 Mar 2010 Posts: 1

Ok, first a bit of background about me. I'm 22 years old, 188 cm tall guy. The only experience with dancing is ballroom dancing classes. I really liked them but I want to learn something cooler and more freestyle. I would like to learn to dance like in the movie "Step Up" and something similar to these guys:
www(.)youtube(.)com/watch?v=TjJGYxxUV-M

The thing is - I am pretty buff (88 kilos) but I'm lean and ripped so it's not a big problem.

I have a lot of experience in stretching, I am very flexible (can do full splits), I also have a bit of breakdancing and acrobatics experience (can do backflips, handstands, sideflips, etc...).

I want to use my skills to become a kickass dancer.

Where could I start?

Are there some good youtube videos I can learn from?

What kind of dancing classes should I look for?

Thanks in advance :)

Elmir · Joined: 02 Mar 2010 Posts: 2

We are on the same boat...

missjojo · Joined: 12 Jun 2008 Posts: 2

Join a beginner hip hop class and in about a year you'll make good progress!

amanda · Posted: Mon Apr 05, 2010 7:51 am Post subject:

Before starting any dance class. You should clear that what kind of dance will suit you and you will feel comfortable.

pushystagemama · Joined: 20 Mar 2010 Posts: 5

Good on you Robert!

My suggestion would be to do a variety of classes: hip hop, funk, contemporary, lyrical, ballet etc to see what each style feels like. Then listen to your gut, and go with what you like best!

I think that the best dancers are well rounded and have learnt a variety of styles.

If you are already flexible then that is a great asset to a dancer!

Good luck!

Damo · Posted: Thu Apr 22, 2010 7:44 am Post subject:

If you're looking to dance like they do in Step up (the video link didn't work). Then I would suggest and open Hip Hop or Break Dancing class. There are quite a few open Hip Hop classes depending on the area you're in, but they're pretty common.

Being a male dancer myself I can confidently say that having a male teacher is a great advantage as they understand how a guy's body works more so than a female teacher. But I'm not saying there aren't very good female teachers you could also benefit from.

Also don't limit yourself to Hip Hop and Break dance. As mentioned before try a few styles and see which one suites you the most even if you just START with Hip Hop.

You're current skills are very useful as many dance teachers look for acro to put in their routines. I am 16 and have recently learnt back summies, and have already performed them several times.

If you have a lot of body strength that will be great for partner work and gaining height in your jumps/acro as well as holding difficult positions/freezes.

And as for your flexibility. If you're 22 have had barely any dance training and can still do full splits. I commend you as it id harder to stay flexible the older you get and even harder for guys. This will be very handy as a dancer.

Hope this has helped you and good luck with your dance.