How to Take African Dance Lessons

Dance classes provide entertainment and exercise in an organized setting. African rhythms and dance are some of the most challenging, in terms of movements and tempo. Finding the right African Dance for you is easier when you follow these hints.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Research the different types of African Dance at a local library in books such as "African Dance" by Welsh and Asante or online websites such as Worldartswest. African dances vary across the region from Focodaba in Guinea to Well Boot Dances in South Africa.

2. Find a dance instructor or studio in your area that offers African dance instruction. Look for classes or clubs at a nearby community college or university. Watch performances or recitals before signing up for a dance class to see if that instructor or style is right for you.

3. Buy African dance DVDs if a class or instructor is not available in your local area. Some DVDs like the "African Healing Dance" include dance examples from all regions of Africa, while other DVDs incorporate African dance steps into aerobic routines or other styles of dance.

4. Try Joneeba, which incorporates floor exercises, yoga and African dance. You can become certified to teach Joneeba through an instructional video or by attending a New York class.

5. Download African dance steps from Internet sites such as Savoystyle. A good instructor stresses the importance of dancing with passion and includes hip, shoulder and torso movement secrets or hints.

6. Practice learned steps and routines in front of a mirror and at least 3 times a week. Practicing in front of a mirror helps you gain confidence and proficiency with the athleticism of the basic gestures and dancing with your entire body.

Resources

• Search for area studios offering African Dance.
• Worldsartwest tells about different dance types.
• Get dance steps from Savoystyle.