Finding the right partner to work with—whether you’re working on a job project, in a relationship, or dancing—can be tricky and difficult. So what exactly should you look for in a ballroom dance partner? We have eight things to look for in a ballroom dance partner to make your time on the dance floor that much better.
1. Respect
Like all partnerships in life, this one’s a biggie. Make sure to find a ballroom dance partner who respects you. They don’t have to be the world’s greatest dancer, but respect will go a long way on the dance floor.
2. Dedication
Do you want to ballroom dance just for fun or do you want to enter a ballroom dance competition? Whatever your dancing goals may be, make sure you and your partner are on the same page. You’ll need your partner for practice and will want to make sure you’re both putting in the proper amount of footwork.
3. Communication
There’s a reason “excellent communication skills” is listed on nearly every job posting, and ballroom dance partnering is no different. Good communication with your dance partner is essential on and off the dance floor. Communicating well with one another will lead to better dancing and enjoyment overall.
4. Comparable skillset
Your dance partner doesn’t have to be a contender for Dancing with the Stars, or have all the right moves, but the two of you should be pretty well matched in your dancing skills.
5. Good hygiene
Ballroom dancing requires closeness. It’s important that your partner has fresh breath, be free from body odor, not wear too much cologne or perfume and try to keep sweat to a minimum or bring an extra shirt in case of excessive perspiration. Cleanliness will make for a better experience for all parties involved.
6. Trust
Trust is the foundation of any important relationship and it’s essential that you have trust in your dance partner. You’ll want to trust your partner on the dance floor—that they’ll be able to have your back and support you properly—and you’ll also want to trust them off the dance floor too. You can trust that a good partner will be at practice when they say they will, and that you can trust them with your dancing doubts and victories.
7. Non-critical
No one wants to be with someone who is constantly critiquing them. On the dance floor, this can lead to insecurities and doubt. Find a ballroom dance partner who supports you and isn’t critical of you or your skills.
8. They have fun
Ballroom dancing can be a wonderful adventure, so make sure and find a partner who wants to share that adventure with you. Find someone who is easy to talk to, has a good sense of humor and is fun on and off the dance floor.
So how do you go about finding this perfect dance partner? If you’re in a relationship already, then ballroom dancing can do wonders for the two of you.
If you’re going stag, there are websites with classifieds and bulletin boards but many sites advise against using them. Instead, attend competitions as a spectator and try to meet people there. You can meet judges and studio owners who may be able to introduce you to other like-minded dancers.
You can also attend a free lesson at Arthur Murray Dance Now and meet people through them. Dance lessons can be a great way to expand your social circle and meet new friends.
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