I’ve always wanted to dance, but I can’t because-
I’ve always wanted to dance, but I can’t because-
I know it’ll be a great conversation when someone says they can’t dance. The reasons are always similar, “I have no rhythm, I'm too old, I'm too rigid, I’m afraid of what people will think of me.” The question I ask next is if they have ever truly tried and 90% say no, they would feel embarrassed.
Anyone can dance, but not everyone has learned technique.
That separates the professionals from those who do it recreationally. The stigma of “I can’t dance” instills doubt before even trying. You CAN dance, if you’re really hungry and determined to work hard and learn. The root of dance should stem from enjoyment and passion, letting the music manipulate your body the way it tells you to. I have three reminders that will get you out of the “I can’t” train of thought:
No one is watching you dance except yourself and your instructor. I can tell you a thousand times I have been self conscious. I always thought dancers were watching me and were judging me because I wasn’t considered good enough for my own standards. I didn’t realize until I was older that they are all focused on themselves doing well, remembering the choreography, and trying to find a spot in the room to be seen. You are free to dance as you please within the bounds of choreography. Utilize your personality in your dancing because it makes it unique.
2. You can dance at any age! Whether you’re 18 months in a mommy and me class or in your seventies lacing up your tap shoes for the first time, there is something for every age group. The data surrounding the skills learned from taking dance classes is astounding. I’ll discuss in another post the benefits of dance in depth, but I can’t express enough that you are never too old or too young.
3. If you don’t know how to do something, train and take classes! Watch your favorite dancer on youtube and become inspired. Asking questions is critical so you can understand how and why something works. Once you learn, practice, and rehearse you will be able to master certain steps and take your skillset to the next level.
If you’re a beginner who wants to learn how to keep rhythm, or you’re a seasoned veteran, KO Consultations provides classes for you to hone and grow your dance skills. So what are you waiting for? Turn that I can’t mentality into I can do it all!
-Arianna Muennich