Any suggestions for older dancers?

rskcak · Joined: 25 Apr 2008 Posts: 1

We are in beg-int group ballroom lessons and are having trouble recalling steps from the previous week. The cost of private lessons is prohibitive but likely would help. Any of you more mature and experienced dancers ever face this problem?

Spyderlady · Joined: 28 May 2008 Posts: 4

What I always find helpful is to stay a few minutes after class and go over what was covered. Then, during the week another short bit of practice at home makes a lot of difference. If you can't get actual practice try mental practice such as visualizing or even listening to music and counting out your steps. I agree private lessons are expensive but they are soooo productive and if you could try one occasionally I bet you would keep things much straighter in your mind. Smile

key2bu · Joined: 08 Jul 2008 Posts: 3

Hi!
I don't consider myself old, but I'm not 25 anymore. On remembering the steps it is helpful to sit down immediately after class and write the steps down. Write them in YOUR terms. If your instructor uses dance terms during class and it is helpful for you to make up terms that suits YOUR mind/memory, then do that. ("Side quick 3 step" for example.)

Also, ASK ANY questions you may have during class or to a well practiced student after class. As mentioned by another post here, sometimes just reviewing that one little step you keep missing helps the flow of the whole lesson. I know when I miss a step and I am facing another direction than the whole class, I begin missing every step after my mistake. So ask someone after class.

Take your notes out and practice/reherse at home after class. If you are retired, practice again first thing in the morning. Our memory constructs new links MUCH better last thing at night and first thing in the morning. Those are the best times to "memorize."

Lastly, ENJOY yourself and have FUN in class. Studies have shown a person who is relaxed and is having fun will remember FAR more than someone who is forcing oneself through a "worried or anxiety" state of mind.

Good luck and have FUN! ...and remember, you are out there keeping your mind sharp while 99.9% of others your age are home letting their minds go to mush in front of the TV!!!