The answers to all the questions you ask yourself 😉 well almost…

What levels of course are available?

Beginner level: This level is for people with little or no experience of salsa. Beginner classes focus on basic steps, posture, fundamental movements and learning the main basic figures.

Intermediate level: Once dancers have mastered the basics of salsa, they can move on to the intermediate level. Classes at this level go into greater depth on movements, step variations, more complex sequences and the development of musicality.

Advanced level: This level is reserved for experienced dancers who are confident in their mastery of basic salsa techniques. Advanced classes focus on advanced movement combinations, more complex figures, fast footwork and the exploration of more advanced styles.

Style and technique classes: Laydstyling or Menstyling classes focus on specific salsa styles, such as mambo, rumba, change of rhythm, etc. These classes concentrate on the characteristics and techniques of each style. These classes focus on the characteristics and techniques specific to each style.

Private lessons: Carte blanche! Ask our teachers whatever you want, whether it’s to improve technique, perfect a style, come up with choreography ideas for an event, wedding, etc. or other special requests. We are also happy to help you with your personal projects.

It’s important to note that if you already have experience of salsa or have taken classes elsewhere, you may be able to start at a more advanced level. In this case, we recommend that you contact Simon to discuss your level and find the right course for you.

At what age can I start taking salsa classes?

There is no specific age at which you can start taking salsa classes. Salsa dancing is an activity open to everyone, regardless of age.

For children, some schools offer salsa classes adapted to their age group, generally focusing on simpler movements, rhythm games and a fun approach to learning to dance.

It’s important to note that physical requirements and learning abilities can vary from person to person, whatever your age. So, whatever your age, if you’re interested in salsa, don’t hesitate to ask Simon about classes suited to your level and goals.

Do I need to bring a partner with me to register for classes?

No, you don’t usually need to bring a partner to the class. Our salsa classes are often designed to allow students to change partners regularly, encouraging rotation and learning to dance in pairs with different people. This allows everyone to participate, whether you’re on your own or with a partner. You’ll have the opportunity to dance with different partners and meet new people in the dance community.

How long does a salsa class usually last?

Our classes last 1 hour. If BailaBien offers several consecutive salsa classes, you can take them one after the other. In this case, each higher-level class will build on the knowledge and skills acquired in the previous classes.

What different styles of salsa are taught at the school?

We teach Cuban salsa, Simon obtained 2 certificates from 2 salsa schools in Havana.

Can I try out a class before committing to a full session?

Absolutely! The 1st hour is non-binding. You can come and try our classes and see if you want to commit to a 10-hour session.

What type of shoes should I wear for salsa classes?

We recommend that you wear shoes that offer good support and grip. Dance shoes specially designed for salsa are ideal, as they have flexible soles that facilitate movement and allow a good connection with the floor. Shoes with leather or suede soles are also popular, as they offer sufficient grip while allowing fluid pivots. It’s best to avoid shoes with rubber soles, as they can make movement difficult. Make sure you also wear comfortable shoes that allow you to dance for long periods without discomfort.

What clothes should I wear to salsa classes?

We recommend that you wear clothes that are comfortable and allow good freedom of movement. Here are a few suggestions:

Tops: Choose lightweight, breathable tops, such as tank tops, T-shirts or light shirts. Avoid loose-fitting tops that could restrict your movement.

Bottoms: Choose trousers that allow you to move easily. Make sure your clothes are not too tight.

Shoes: Refer to the previous question for appropriate shoes to wear during salsa classes.

Accessories: Avoid bulky objects that could interfere with your movements or get in the way of your dance partner.

It’s important to feel comfortable in your clothes if you want to enjoy the dance to the full.

How can you overcome the fear of dancing in public?

Here are a few tips to help you:

Practise regularly: The more you practise, the more comfortable you’ll feel. Rehearse moves, learn choreography and practise in front of a mirror or with friends. The more confident you are in your skills, the less anxious you’ll be about dancing in public.

Start with small steps: If dancing in public makes you uncomfortable, start with more familiar and less intimidating environments. Join a group dance class or go to a dance party with friends.

Positive visualisation: Visualise yourself dancing with confidence and pleasure in front of an audience. Positive visualisation can help boost your self-esteem and reduce anxiety.

Breathe and relax: Before dancing in public, take a few moments to breathe deeply and relax. Deep breathing can calm your nerves and give you a feeling of relaxation.

Express yourself and have fun: Remember that dancing is a form of self-expression and fun. Focus on having fun, feeling the music and sharing your energy with the audience. Let yourself be carried away by the music and don’t worry too much about other people’s opinions.

If it helps, ask a friend to dance with you. Having support can make the experience more enjoyable and less stressful.

Remember that most people are too preoccupied with their own dancing to pay too much attention to what you’re doing. Confidence comes with practice and time, so don’t get discouraged and keep dancing with passion!

What are the health benefits of dance?

Dancing is an excellent way to keep fit and look after your health. Here are some of the health benefits of dance:

Fitness: Dance is a physical activity that involves various muscle groups, improving strength, endurance and flexibility. It helps develop better coordination, balance and agility.

Cardiovascular: Dance is a form of aerobic exercise, which means it increases heart rate and improves cardiovascular health. It helps strengthen the heart and lungs, promoting better blood circulation.

Burns calories: Dancing is a physical activity that burns calories. Depending on the intensity of the dance, you can lose weight, maintain a healthy weight or improve your body composition.

Flexibility and posture: Dancing encourages muscles to stretch, which improves flexibility and promotes better body posture. This can help reduce muscle pain and tension.

Mental well-being: Dancing releases endorphins, the happy hormones, which can help reduce stress, improve mood and promote a sense of mental well-being. Dance is also seen as a form of artistic expression that can help to release emotions and stimulate creativity.

Socialising: Dance is often practised in groups, which encourages socialising and meeting new people. Taking part in dance classes or dance events allows you to meet new people who share the same passion.

What does a typical salsa class involve?

Warm-up: The class often begins with a warm-up period to prepare the body for dancing. This may include stretching exercises, basic salsa moves and fitness exercises.

Learning the basic steps: The teacher teaches the basic salsa steps, which are the foundation of the dance. This generally includes basic movements such as the basic step forwards and backwards, turns and lateral movements. Students repeat these movements to master them.

Figures and sequences: The teacher then presents different salsa figures and step sequences. This can include combinations of movements, variations of figures and footwork. Pupils have the opportunity to practise these figures with partners.

Technical work: Some salsa classes may include time devoted to technical exercises to improve posture, balance, connection with the partner and musicality. This may include leading and following exercises, as well as advice on movement technique.

Partner practice: Students are encouraged to practice movements and figures with different Rueda dance partners. This helps develop the ability to guide or follow comfortably and to adapt to different styles of dancers.

Each salsa class can vary according to the level of the students, the style taught and the teacher’s preferences. Some classes may also include solo exercises, rhythm games and advice on musical interpretation.

What is a Rueda?

A Rueda, in the context of Cuban salsa, is a very popular form of group dance. It is characterised by a circular structure in which the dancers form a circle and perform synchronised movements in response to the calls or commands of a leader.

In a Rueda, the leader announces the dance figures to come, usually using specific names for each figure. The dancers then perform these movements together, either clockwise or in a predetermined order.

One of the special features of the Rueda is the constant change of partners. With each new figure, the dancers change partners as they move around the circle. This creates a social and interactive dynamic where each dancer has the opportunity to dance with different partners, adding a playful dimension to the dance.

Rueda is often practised at Cuban salsa parties and requires a good knowledge of the basic figures and coordination with the other dancers in the circle. It’s a joyful, energetic and interactive dance that encourages communication, musical listening and group cohesion.

The Rueda is a characteristic element of Cuban salsa and is a fun and convivial dance experience for both dancers and spectators.