Activity Focus: Salsa Dancing

Brittany Watson first took a salsa dancing class in 2007, and fell in love with it. She has performed as part of the E-Town Salsa Dance Team, at various community events in Edmonton and teaches salsa classes (sometimes at bachelorette parties!). We asked Watson to give us the lowdown on taking up Salsa Dancing...

Brittany Watson and her dance partner Esteban Garro

How easy it is to start this activity if you have never done it before?

Very easy. In most cities there are community classes taught by professionals. Classes often have people of many levels, so there is room to grow as you get better. Salsa communities are big right now, so finding internet forums and meet-up groups is really easy. When you first start, you'll need to practice a lot and take your time, don’t try anything crazy at first. It takes a few classes to get with it, for everybody, no matter whether you have previous dance experience or not.

What would a beginner find challenging?

Dancing with a partner, and trusting other people you dance with is challenging: No matter if they are your spouse, partner, friend or stranger. It is challenging for beginners to start a new class, mentally as well as physically.

Would you need a basic certain level or fitness to start this activity?

No. It is one of those things that anyone could start. You can learn basic combinations and not be a top-level professional dancer. I think that anyone can do it without feeling too much strain.

What kind of workout does it give the body?

You get a great whole body workout. It is also great for your midsection because you are isolating your muscles while dancing as you learn to use your hips. After a couple of months of taking classes, you'll feel stronger and more coordinated.

What kind of equipment would you need to start doing this activity?

Stretchy pants, clothes you can move in, and comfortable shoes. They don’t have to be expensive, just something you feel comfortable moving around in. Try not to wear jeans, as they tend to get in the way as you move. Wear something you don’t mind sweating in because you will work up a sweat by the end of the class.

What are the costs involved in doing this activity?

Depends on where you decide to take a class, but for sure less than you would normally pay for yoga or a gym membership. Having said that, some gyms and fitness clubs have salsa classes as part of fitness activities. You can always just go to a salsa club, which is great because lots of clubs have a free class right before their salsa night starts. It is a great way to meet new people, and there will usually always be people to dance with.