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Why Country Dance Lessons are Great for Couples

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Country dance lessons in ArizonaAre you a little bit Country, but your boyfriend is more Rock-n-Roll? That’s OK! Let’s talk about something perfect for both of you to enjoy together… Country dancing! And what do you need to become awesome Country dancers? Well, Country Dance Lessons, of course.

Country dancing is so hot right now, that if you don’t know how to Two Step or Swing dance, you’re really missing out. While other twosomes are spinning and twirling out on the dance floor, you’re going to be sitting on the sidelines wishing you knew how to do what they can do. Now that’s no fun! Even worse, she’ll begin accepting dances from other guys and you’ll be bellied up to the bar with your beer all night.

With Country Dance Lessons for beginners under your belt, you’ll have the confidence to take your gal out anywhere, anytime. You’ll see through private dance instruction, which is the best way to learn in my opinion, that all the questions on how Country dancing works can be answered. For example, and this is a biggie, “How do I get her to spin comfortably?” is a common question that guys need to know. With one-on-one lessons, you will learn to lead on the dance floor as a guy, and how to follow, as the lady. With that skill alone, you can do anything. How empowering is that!? I would say it’s the key to a successful night out Country dancing!

For couples, Country dancing can also bring you closer together. (Who knew??) When you take lessons to explore exciting Country dances, from the Two Step to the ever-popular Country Swing, you will discover how to work together as a team. This effort alone will be a fun challenge that will allow you to both accomplish your goals on the dance floor. From there, you can really have a blast Country Western dancing!

And let’s not forget the physical perks of going out dancing on the weekends. When you put down the ice cream and pry yourselves off the couch, you can burn up to 500 calories and hour Country dancing. You will also be using muscles that you didn’t know you had, so be prepared to shed a few pounds and gain some muscle…on your date night with your sweetie! Bonus!

Lastly, dancing is romantic. Whether you’re giving Country dancing a try, or learning how to Salsa dance, you will be doing it together, in each other’s arms. There’s really nothing more intimate than that when it comes to an incredible date night with one another.

In case you’re wondering, “What exactly is Country Dancing?”, let me help.  Like a lot of other current popular dances, Country dancing developed from folk dances to become one of the top social partner dances in the United States today. If Country music is being played, and it is often these days, you’ve got to know how to blend in with the handful of dances are “in” today, including Country Two Step, Country Swing, Line Dancing, West Coast Swing, Nite Club Two Step and Country Waltz. Each of these unique styles will keep you busy on your dance lessons as you become well-rounded and competent dancers.

There’s no doubt that knowing how to Country dance will come in handy if you live here in Arizona. Being that there’s a Country bar on virtually every corner, you can use your dancing almost 7 days a week!  If you are interested in getting started with Country Dance Lessons to build your confidence before getting out on the dance floor, then give us a call! As I mentioned, Private Country Dance Lessons are the fastest way to become a great social dancer, especially since each lesson will be personalized to you. Not only will we get you and your partner Two Stepping in no time, but you will soon see all the fun you’ve been missing. To set up an Introductory Country Dance Lesson, check out our website, or give us a call today at 480-968-6177. We hope to see you on the dance floor soon!

Line dancing Arizona

Get Ready for Country Thunder 2015 With Dance Lessons

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Line dancing ArizonaAs Country Thunder draws near, a four day concert event in Florence, Arizona, that practically sells out at each previous year’s venue, we are reminded just how popular the cross-market genre of Country Music is and why all styles of Country Dancing are drawing dancers out on crowded dance floors across the world.  Here at Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona we are finding the majority of our students are here to learn the popular styles: Country Two Step, Country Waltz, West Coast Swing, Country Swing and Line dancing.

One of our favorite students, Josh S., who has just completed 25 hours of private Country dance lessons, took the time to sit down with me and explain how and why he decided to take lessons here at Dance FX Studios.  As I talked with Josh it became easy to understand why he is here almost every day, fully committed to becoming the best Country dancer he can as well as be taken in by his obvious passion for Country Dancing.

Q: What brought you in to our studio to take dance lessons and why did you want to learn Country Dancing?

Josh: Actually it was a New Year’s resolution. I just decided it was something I wanted to do and do well because I am very competitive. I searched on the internet looking for dance studios that offered what I was looking for; freestyle Country dancing. I found this place right away. A lot of the other places that offered dance lessons were not teaching what I was looking for. After doing the research, it kept leading me back to this place. The reviews were really good on Dance FX Studios and, even though I live about an hour away, I decided to come here.

Q: Why Country Dancing?

Josh: I enjoy Country Music and I’m a Country boy at heart. What happened was I went out with a couple of friends that Country dance and they were moving through the dance floor and spinning. I so wanted to join in the fun. I play a lot of sports so, for me, not being able to dance was like being on the bench instead of playing in the game. I don’t want to be on the bench. I had absolutely no dance experience. I just came straight here and the dance instructors were great. When I started learning here, it was just so different. They began teaching me things that you don’t see out on the dance floor which is cool because that sets me apart from the other dancers.

Q: What dance is your favorite and why?

Josh: That is tough because I like them all for different reasons. I like the Country Two-Step a lot, and I really like Country Swing dancing. I also really like the Night-Club Two Step. Night-Club just has a different feel, something you’re not used to. I mean growing up dancing to a slow song, well … I’d just sway… lol. So instead of just swaying, to be able to go to a slow song and go with the music, to be able to do spins and turns or the grapevine and stuff, it feels more like floating, than when you do fast paced stuff, like Two-Step or Swing, Night-Club – it’s more romantic.

Q: What do you feel are the benefits you are receiving by taking these dance lessons?

Josh: I think definitely when you go to a scene like that, like a Country Bar or something, I now have confidence. Even if that wasn’t what I was looking for, I feel confident now that I can recognize a song and see other people out there dancing and I can get out there and Swing and look different from what everybody else is doing. For me, it’s also a stress reliever, it’s also relaxing. It’s fun after a busy day at work or busy week, you have a ton on your mind, you been dealing with a lot of stuff just turn on the music and go. To be able to put moves together and flow and have fun, the stress and frustration just kind of melts away. Dancing is really great for that for sure. Also for health reasons too, because of the stress relief and the extra exercise, dancing is great for that!

Q: Are our instructors making it fun and easy for you?

Josh: Yes, it’s intense for me because I am trying to learn so much all at once. I come here to have a good time, but I want to learn quickly and know more because I want to be the best I can be. The instructors have a way of building an atmosphere where it’s welcoming and inviting, but not intimidating. Here, the instructors take the time to get to know you, they break the ice. To be able have that while they are teaching you makes it an all-around pleasant and worthwhile experience.

A big thank you to Josh for taking the time to share his experiences at Dance FX Studios with us. We are blessed to be able to instruct such great people, Josh being at the top of the list. 🙂

If you’re interested in getting ready for Country Thunder, or any upcoming Country dance night out, get started with our New Student Offer. It’s a wonderful way to see how dancing can enhance your life!

Ballroom AZ

Keep Calm and Dance On!

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Ballroom AZBeginner dancers, learning a new hobby as cool as Salsa, Swing or Country Two Step dancing is amazing! As you may also be discovering, though, it can take a little time to get to looking smooth and natural on that dance floor. Keep plugging along…knowing how to dance is a timeless and extremely useful skill. But, on those days when you feel like throwing in the towel (and we have all had those days), here are a few tips on what to do.

1. Think less. Yes, believe it or not, over-thinking has lead to the death of many dancers with great potential. It makes sense to think that if I just obsess over my dance moves, surely they’ll sink in, right? Wrong. In fact, when you are getting stressed about that challenging step, you are sure to not recall it at all. Our tip? Just walk away and let it go. Wait for another time when you can approach your dancing with a clear mind. From there, you’ll be surprised at how much you actually did retain in your private dance lesson. Keep in mind, the muscles do remember, even when the brain seems to forget. 🙂

2. Remind yourself that Rome wasn’t built in a day. That’s right. While Country Two Step dancing, for example, may seem like a breeze, those out there who are stealing the spotlight have put in their time training. While everyone would love to be great instantly, knowing how to dance just doesn’t happen overnight.

If you want the shortest route to becoming a confident dancer, then take private dance instruction. Without a doubt, you will learn more in one hour of a private Country dance lesson with a qualified instructor than you would in 5 to 10 hours of group dance classes.

3. Invest in yourself. This is the biggie. It’s not only your time, but there’s a financial investment to learning to dance. Those “free” group dance classes in the bars are free for a reason. Set aside some funds for this new venture as you begin learning to dance. It’s truly a great investment in yourself and, if you have one, your partner. Social dancing has so many wonderful benefits, from weight loss to stress relief to improved balance and coordination, that knowing how to dance is probably one of the best investment that you can make in you. So stick with it when you begin climbing that first steep hill as a beginner and remind yourself that anything that is worth doing takes time and effort. Then, once you get that ball rolling, you’ll have people waiting in line to dance with you! (Trust me, it will happen.)

If you are willing to put a little time and energy into taking care of you, and you happen to live here with us in Phoenix, Arizona, come enjoy time learning to dance at Dance FX Studios in the Phoenix East Valley. We can help you to explore popular dances like Salsa, Country, Swing and Argentine Tango. Our New Student Offer is a great way to check us out for just $25! So, what are you waiting for, strap on your dancing shoes and let’s get this party started!

All About The Country Two Step

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In light of our Country Dance Party that was held last night, let’s take a look at an extremely popular Country dance style, the Country Two Step. You may also know this dance as the AZ Two Step or the Texas Two Step. Some even call its many variations the Rhythm Two Step and the Progressive Two Step. Regardless,  in all of its forms and with its many names, the Two Step is a lively, playful dance that many Arizona residents here and Country dancers around the world enjoy.

As most dances do, the Two Step has a history rich of the influences of different cultures and dance types. There are many styles of the Country Two Step that can depend on location and personal preference. The Country Western Two Step originated from the Foxtrot and has elements of the Foxtrot and Swing to it as well. This combination of dances obtained its Country Western influence in the 1940s upon contact with square dancing communities. Some experts believe that this partner dance has roots dating back to the 1800s in Mexican and European history.  The Two Step was said to have appeared in Hungary and Germany at this time, while at the same time receiving influence from Mexican fandangos.

There’s no doubt that the Country Two Step will come in handy if you live here in Arizona. Its versatility and playfulness make it perfect for a night of dancing at any Country bar! At Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona, we host dance events with live Country or Swing music to give you a place to both learn and practice the Country Two Step. At our dance events, we provide drinks and desserts as well as the perfect venue for students and local residents to come and dance, mingle and relax from 8pm to 11pm on pre-selected Saturday evenings. Not proficient in the Two Step yet? No worries! Our excellent instructors will be on the dance floor too, giving pointers and grooving right along with you. Tickets are always at a discounted price of $15 if you purchase them in advance. Otherwise, tickets are $20 at the door.

If you are interested in Country dance lessons to build a bit of confidence before getting out on the dance floor, try out our Introductory Offer of $40 for 1 hour-long private introductory lesson. Private Country dance lessons are the fastest way to get out on to the dance floor as everything will be catered around your learning style and availability.  Not only can we get you and your partner Two Steppin’ in no time, we also offer dance lessons in Country Swing, Country Waltz, and Nite Club Two Step, which are all fun, popular dances that you can anywhere from a cruise to wedding to a Country bar! Country Two Step and Country Swing group classes for couples are another cool service that we offer if you are more inclined to learn in a group setting. You can inquire on our website or call us at the studio at 480.968.6177 for more information. See you in the studio soon, Country dance Fans!

dancing in class

Preparing for Private Dance Lessons

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So, you’ve taken the leap and signed up for social ballroom dance lessons. You have always wanted to learn to Country Two Step, Salsa or Swing dance here in Phoenix, Arizona. Good for you for trying something new! You will soon discover the world of social partner dancing and its many benefits. But, what now? What should you remember and what is there to expect in your private dance lessons? We at Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona want you to thrive on that dance floor. We want you to be confident and comfortable, with all of the tools that you need to really shine out there at any Country bar, wedding or Latin club. With over a decade of experience training the everyday person useful social dances like Country Swing and Argentine Tango, we have come up with a few things that you should keep in mind when attending your private dance lessons.

1. Be Comfortable. Even though traditional “ballroom dancing” may bring some swanky scenes to mind, there is no need to wear your Sunday best when you come to your private dance lessons with us Dance FX Studios. In fact, we want you to be as comfortable as possible since we will be preparing you to dance out in the real world, from Country bars to Latin dance clubs. Comfortable clothing that allows movement is best-as opposed to tight skirts or jeans-so that you can move freely . For shoes, we do not recommend wearing tennis shoes or flip flops, however a pair of heels with straps around the ankles or Cowboy boots will be just fine. (Rubber soles of tennis shoes tend to grip the floor, which is not ideal for dancing.) Also, since dancing requires backwards movements-mostly for the ladies-in which you can easily lose your shoe, trip or fall, those straps will really come in handy. Comfort is key, but appropriate shoes are a must.

2. Be on Time. Make sure you arrive a few minutes before your private dance lesson starts. This gives you time to mingle with other students, get your proper footwear ready and get settled. Additionally, learning to dance is an investment. Make the most of it by coming in early and getting ready to dance! Arriving late to a lesson results in a loss of the time you have paid for and the time that your instructor has reserved for you. Another fun part of coming early is that you can relax for a bit and watch other dancers while you wait for your lesson to begin.

3. Practice. Everybody knows that practice makes perfect! The fun and easy homework assignments that your Dance FX Studios’ dance instructor gives you will include great ways to practice and apply what you learn here at Dance FX Studios. If your memory is less than stellar, then you can even take some shorthand notes to help you remember steps and movements. If you are a visual learner, you can record parts of your private dance lesson for review. Dance FX Studios’ Nights Out, In House Dance Parties, Group Dance Classes and going out on your own are all also great ways to practice. Whatever your preference, just make sure you get those moves down and don’t forget to practice.

4. Have Fun. You probably signed up for dance lessons because you want to have some fun, right? Take a deep breath if you have to, but don’t be reluctant to shake things off. In no time, you will be able to get the dance steps, so don’t get discouraged when you don’t nail something right away. Frustration and loss of confidence in your abilities will actually hinder your performance even more, so breathe, smile, and enjoy yourself!

If you are ready to sign up for your first private Country, Latin or Swing dance lesson, come into Dance FX Studios in Mesa, Arizona, or give us a call today at 480-968-6177. Dance FX Studios offers Private Ballroom Dance Lessons, Group Dance Classes and social events. To get a taste of what we offer, try our private dance lesson Introductory Offer. You can learn  the basics of several fun social dances as well as tips for how to be a great social dancer. Also, meet with your instructor to discuss where you see yourself dancing so they can maximize your dance goals. Our Introductory Offer is only $40, and you are sure to get hooked! And when you do come in, don’t forget to be comfortable, be on time, practice and have FUN!