Recently we had an opportunity to kick up our heels at Toby Keith’s Bar and Grill in Mesa, AZ as Dance FX Studios was invited to come and teach a Country Two Step dance class and then judge a dance country dance competition. The Two Step dance class was a blast and the competition was filled with great dancers! Afterwards, the  dance floor opened up for everyone else to enjoy. With amazing live music by local county bands, the two step and country swing were that much more enjoyable to dance.

As we made our way to the floor we realized that it had been six months since our last visit to Toby Keith’s for country dancing. There was a reason for this, but we were hesitant to share it as Toby’s is such a great place to hang out. Mainly, we quickly remembered that dancing at Toby’s was more of a risk than an adventure. The dancers were having fun, but not being mindful of others to say the least. From flipping the ladies to nearly ripping their arms out of their sockets, we saw it all.

As experts on social Country dancing, we have a few tips below to make Country dancing FUN and safe for everyone on the dance floor.

Tip #1: Share the dance floor. You know how exciting it is to country dance, but big movements don’t equal more fun. Take small steps so you can let newcomers give dancing a whirl without the fear being shoved by oncoming dancers who are flung into them.

Tip #2: Keep your feet on the ground. Flipping and tricks that include lifting your lady can be dangerous on any crowded dance floor. Keep your feet down and show her how she is your dance partner, not your lasso.

Tip #3: Remember that her limbs should remain in tact for a good time. Yanking each other around the dance floor seems cool and very “country”, but it really is just a sign of an untrained dancer. Great country dancers take care of each other and support each other on the dance floor rather than dislocating each other’s body parts.

As thrilled as we are that dancing is more popular now than ever, our hope is to create great social dancers who can take their dancing anywhere. For information Country dancing lessons, CLICK HERE. You too can become a great social dancer in no time!