Dance Etiquette

Because we dance simultaneously on the same floor, it is healthy for everyone to practice proven, traditional dance floor etiquette. This applies to newcomers as well as seasoned dancers.

Tip #1: Stationary dances like swing, line dancing, cha-cha, and rhumba, remain in one spot or slot. If the tempo allows for travelling dances - do your stationary dance in the MIDDLE of the dance floor. This allows clearance of the outer track for traveling dancers. 

Tip #2: All traveling dances—including foxtrot, waltz, two-step, tango, polka, and triple or two-step—move counter-clockwise along the outside. Slower dancers travel on inner tracks to allow faster dancers the far outer track. 

Tip #3: Everyone should dance defensively, especially when the floor is crowded. Don’t assume that any space or track belongs solely to you; be willing to yield. Be alert to those dancing behind you and beside you and in front of you.

Tip #4: If you bump into someone, smile and apologize. If someone bumps into you, smile and apologize. If you find yourself apologizing all the time, well.... If you find yourself smiling all the time, great.

Tip #5: If you are not dancing, please visit with your friends off the dance floor. No food, drinks, or acrobatic lifts on the dance floor.

Tip #6: Consider investing in standard dance shoes. Their suede soles grip the floor while letting you slide, spin, and turn with control. They are comfortable and last for years. Kept clean and dry, they protect the dance floor, too. Dance wax is not permitted on the floor for safety reasons.

Tip #7: Both men and women can ask others to dance! Remember to smile when asking and when accepting!

Tip #8: Do not critique your partner's dance skills unless they specifically ask. Social dances are supposed to be fun not a class.

Tip #9: Do let your dance partner know if they are hurting you. If your partner is squeezing your hand too hard, or pushing or pulling you in a way that hurts your shoulder, let them know. They may not realize their own strength or that you are recovering from an injury.

Tip #10: Dance to the skill level of the less experienced partner. Don't expect a new partner to know all your dance moves! Leaders should start out with basic steps to judge the skill level of the follower. You can show them a new move or two but don't expect them to follow a continuous string of steps they haven't seen before.