by Maria Sacca

Created on: March 15, 2009

When I was in graduate school, my friend Paula invited me to a salsa club. "But I'll have no idea what I'm doing!" I protested, but went anyway, as I'm usually game to try anything once. In the back of the club, Paula broke down the basic salsa step for me, and before I knew it, I was getting pulled onto the dance floor but a random guy that I did not know. For each dance that night, I would start each new partner with an apology that I had no idea what I was doing. However, I was having so much fun that I resolved to keep coming back until I had mastered the steps.

Six years later, I look back on that day as the beginning of an important new chapter in my life. Salsa has brought me much happiness by introducing me to a style of dance that brings out my confidence and femininity, not to mention the health benefits of an increased level of exercise. Salsa has also brought me many friendships; with the dance and music come a subculture with its own strong sense of community. I have grown to love and appreciate the music of salsa, which is every bit as important as the dance. Finally, salsa has opened the door for me to many other styles of dance, now that I have discovered a love of moving to the music. Were it not for salsa, I would not have begun studying ballet, jazz, and modern dance a few years ago.

Maybe you yourself are in the same place I was six years ago; maybe you've thought about trying a salsa club but don't know where to start. Here are some considerations as you start your salsa journey:

-Just Go!-

Grab a friend and head out to your local salsa club. A google search for salsa + the name of your city should tell you where you can go each night of the week. The first time you go, know that it's perfectly okay to just be an observer if you are not ready to give the dance a try. As much as I love to get out there and dance, I find watching salseros dance almost as entertaining. You'll find that everyone has their own style. Some folks like to show off with crazy dips and tricks, while others have a smoother, more subtle style. Order yourself a mojito and enjoy the show.

-Get Your Free Lesson-

That's right: just about every salsa club has free lessons available. Come early and take advantage of the professional lesson before the DJ starts up. This is a good way to meet people and there is no need to bring a partner. Even if you did come with a partner, you will find that the teacher asks you to rotate between partners every few minutes. This is a good thing;

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