On this page You will find Answers to the most commonly asked questions about Learning to Dance Salsa.

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I’ve never danced before, will I stand out? Will I look foolish?

No, you will be surrounded by other people, who, just like yourself, have never danced before and are at least as nervous as you are. Now is the time to learn! Don’t wait and don’t put it off. Our Unique Program is designed especially to make learning Salsa both Fun & Simple for All Beginners, no matter how many left feet they think they have.

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Which Classes should I take? Are they all the same?

All the Beginner classes teach the same basic dance techniques and follow the same Program of Basic Steps, and  Leading & Following Techniques. However, the classes quickly move on to introducing you to the basic moves of either Cuban or New York style salsa, which will depend on the Club Venue and day or night you attend.

We strongly recommend attending at least TWO classes per week for the best results. Many students take multiple classes each week to reinforce the learning process and to progress to the Improver Level faster.

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Do I need a Partner?

Absolutely not! We rotate partners in every class, and everyone will have ample partners to dance with. If we have an imbalance, extra people just wait in between couples, and will get a partner in a couple of minutes (we switch partners regularly during class). Although it is largely out of our control, we do our best to ensure our classes are as evenly balanced as possible.

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I’m bringing someone, do I have to rotate partners?

Rotating partners is not solely for social reasons, as it is crucial to the learning process. It is very important to properly learn how to lead and follow, and as everyone has a different style, changing partners will greatly enhance the speed at which you learn.

That being said, if learning with your own partner is important to you, why not take private lessons alongside the group lessons and enjoy the best of both worlds - the social & technical benefits of group lessons plus the chance to develop unique, special moves & routines you only perform together and making you stand out from the crowd!

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What are the different Class Levels? How long does it take to progress?

We run classes at 5 levels at Salsa SOS

1. Beginner: Fun introductory classes for new dancers where we focus on the basics of Salsa Dancing and Leading & Following
2. Beginner/Improver: Similar to the Beginner Class, but now focussing on the specific style of salsa you are learning, and will introduce you to basic turns, moves & routines.
3. Improver: You will spend 4 to 8 months at this level learning a wide range of Fun Salsa Routines, and mastering the basic techniques of turning, spinning, leading & following.
4. Intermediate: At this level you will apply the techniques you have learned to longer, more complex routines, while adding more style & musicality to your dancing. You will be at this level for quite a long time before being ready to move up to the Advanced Level.
5. Advanced: At this level the teacher lets his or her imagination run riot as they create complex, innovative routines for you to learn. You will be expected to pick these routines up very quickly, and to stamp your own style & personality on them!

Please Note: Evening Beginner classes run from 7-8pm, and are compulsory for first time dancers. Progression from level to level will always be at the discretion of your teacher.

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Can I progress quicker if I want to? What do you recommend?

Before you ask this question, make sure you are going to salsa classes at least twice a week, and that you are dancing as much as possible during the social dancing session after the classes have finished.

If you would still like to progress faster… The easiest answer is to take Individual (private) lessons from Stuart or one of the Salsa SOS team he recommends. In addition, attend any recommended workshops and weekend events, whenever possible. These are very intensive, especially the weekend events, and will have a major impact on your dancing.

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Can Anyone come along? Is there an Age limit?

Our evenings are primarily set up to cater for Adults, but we may allow students as young as 13 (no younger!) to come along and to continue to do so if they are quite grown up and are accompanied by an adult. If in doubt, look for classes for younger age groups in your area.

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Can I bring a group of people?

Of course you can! If you’re nervous about taking a class on your own, why not invite your friends to come along with you. They’ll have a great time and you’ll be able to practice together.

Useful Tip: Visit the Salsa SOS Facebook Page, click on the ‘Like’ button, and share the page with All your Facebook friends. You will soon find the messages flying in asking when you are going, and if they can come too!

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How much do the classes cost? Do you offer any Special Deals?

Our ‘Drop in’ class prices are £5 for 1 class & £8 for 2 classes(cash only), except for Wednesdays; Mornings 10-11:30am at Canvey Island Labor Club is £5, and Wednesday evenings 8:30-10pm class costs £7 (inc. social dancing afterwards).

If you are a first time visitor to our club, simply fill out the form on the right of this page to subscribe to our FREE Club Newsletter, and you (and a friend!) can enjoy your first salsa night (Mon-Thu) with us, including salsa classes, absolutely FREE!

Note: If you are a Beginner you will need to arrive in time for our 7-8pm Beginner class. More experienced dancers should arrive before 8pm.

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What should I wear to class? Any special shoes to wear?

Most people come in dressed casually, though a few do choose to dress up a little bit. It is a dance class, so you should be comfortable!

The only solid tip is to avoid wearing sports shoes/trainers (except dance trainers!); You will be spinning, and you should ideally wear shoes with a leather sole. Once you have been dancing a while you can buy proper dance shoes if you wish!

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Anything else I need to know about being prepared for classes?

Always prepare for dance classes by practicing good hygiene! What that means is, please shower before coming to class – and wear deodorant and antiperspirant. Ladies – perfume, men – a touch of cologne, and everyone – bring your Breath Mints! These little thoughtful touches go a long way.

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What are Salsa Weekends? Can anyone go?

Salsa weekends usually include 3 Party Nights (Fri, Sat & Sun), with live entertainment, till 4am (ish), and two full days of intensive workshops. An absolute MUST for anyone serious about Learning and Enjoying Salsa

Everyone should go to a Salsa Weekend – They are Great! We  recommend good weekenders worth going to in our newsletter, and will make sure you have all the necessary details and plenty of advance warning. The events we recommend usually cater for Beginners, and you can often bring children, so pretty much anyone CAN go.

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