How to start salsa dancing

Salsa is one of the easiest partner dances to start. You don't need a partner, experience or special shoes. All you need is to turn up to a beginner class, or sign up for a beginner course. This guide covers what that first class is like, how to choose between the two, what to bring, and when you're ready to try a social.

Do I need a partner?

No. Most salsa classes rotate partners every few minutes, so you'll dance with everyone in the room. Coming on your own is normal, and the rotation means you learn faster: every partner moves a little differently, and adjusting to that is a big part of dancing.

If you do bring a friend, you'll still rotate. That's part of the fun.

What happens in a beginner class

A typical beginner class runs for about an hour:

1. Warm-up and basic step. You'll learn the basic step on your own first, counting "1-2-3, 5-6-7" to the music.
2. Partner work. Leaders and followers pair up and practise the step together, then add a simple turn or two.
3. Putting it together. The teacher strings the moves into a short routine you'll dance to a full song.

Nobody expects you to get it right first time. Every teacher has seen hundreds of first-timers, and the class is pitched at people who have never danced before.

How to pick your first class

There are two ways to start, and both work.

• A drop-in beginner class. Book one class and see how you get on. Many schools run a beginner class every week, so you can come back whenever it suits you. It's the easiest way to try salsa without committing.
• A beginner course. Sign up once for a set number of weeks, and each class builds on the last. You learn with the same group, so you make friends and progress faster.

Not sure salsa is for you yet? Start with a drop-in class. Already know you want to learn? A course is the quickest way to get the basics down.

Either way, look for one labelled beginner, absolute beginner or level 1. A couple more things worth checking:

• Style. There are lots of styles of salsa, including Cuban, LA style ("on1") and New York style ("on2"), among many others. They share the same roots but feel quite different, so pick one and stick with it while you learn the basics. You can always try others later.
• Is there a social afterwards? Many classes are followed by a social, which is the perfect place to practise what you've just learned.

Leading or following?

Salsa is danced in two roles. The leader suggests the moves and the follower interprets them. Traditionally men lead and women follow, but many classes now just ask which role you'd like to learn, and plenty of dancers learn both.

If you're not sure, pick one for your first few classes. You can always switch later.

What to wear

• Shoes: anything with a smooth sole you can turn in. Trainers with a lot of grip make spins hard on your knees. Leather-soled shoes or worn-in flats are ideal. Proper dance shoes can wait.
• Clothes: something comfortable you can move in that doesn't restrict your arms. You'll get warm, so layers help.
• Bring water, and maybe a small towel if you run warm.

Your first social

A social is a night out where people simply dance. There's no teaching, just music and partners. It can feel daunting, but most socials are very welcoming to beginners.

You're ready sooner than you think: after four to six classes you'll know enough to enjoy a few songs. Some tips:

• Ask, and be asked. It's normal for anyone to ask anyone to dance. A simple "would you like to dance?" is all it takes.
• It's fine to say no, and fine to hear it. Just ask someone else.
• Dance at your level. A good partner adapts to you, and nobody expects a beginner to do more than the basics.
• Say thank you at the end of the song.

Keep going

Like anything, salsa clicks with practice. Most dancers find that once a week for a couple of months takes them from counting their steps to actually enjoying the music. Find a class you like the feel of, go regularly, and add a social when you're ready.

Ready for your first class?

Browse beginner-friendly salsa classes in London and book your spot.

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