5 tips for adults just starting to chase their dancing dreams

If you're going to your first class as an adult, it may seem like you have a huge amount of ground to cover, but you can start dancing at any age and reap the rewards of strength, grace and confidence. Below are five tips that will help you start dance lessons as an adult.

• Although some schools will let beginning adults take classes with younger students, it's probably better to look for an adult class if you're new to dance.
• When you choose an adult class, you'll benefit by taking classes with instructors who are used to working with adult dancers.

• Entering a dance class for the first time can be a daunting experience, but nobody is judging you.
• If you need to ask questions, speak up. You'll learn more that way, and most teachers love to teach engaged students.

• When you first start taking a class, you might notice that you work muscles that you don't normally use much, even if you're in excellent shape.
• Ask your teacher to recommend stretching and strengthening exercises that will help you stay injury free. Try to get to class early to stretch or do core work.

• Taking multiple classes each week helps you improve and condition your body and mind for dance.
• Most professionals train five to six days a week because dance requires a lot of mind-body focus and connection. Even if you only make one class a week, make attendance a priority.
• It's better to maintain a consistent schedule than to attend three classes one week and none the next.

• With all the hard work that goes into dance, it's easy to lose sight of the fact that it's supposed to be fun. Even when you don't feel on top of the world in a class, smile.
• Visualize yourself as the graceful ballerina, fiery Latin dancer, strong modern dancer, fluid jazz dancer or tapper that you want to be. Imagining yourself as an accomplished dancer will help you get closer to your goal.