How to choose the right level and style for you
Are you new to DWI and wondering, “What class and level should I be taking?” With so many styles and levels on our schedule, we know it can feel overwhelming on what might feel right for you. That is why we curated this master guide to help you pick the class that will best match your experience and goals.
Choosing a level
When deciding what level to start in, you might begin by asking yourself the following questions:
- Have I danced in the past, and if so, how long has it been, and how many years did I train?
- Do I know some basic terminology, such as plié, tendu, ball change, etc.?
- Have I had any of the following dance experiences: competitive, college, recreational, or school team?
- Can I count music or follow a basic beat?
If your answers are mostly “no”: You will feel most comfortable in our Absolute Beginner and Beyond the Basics courses. These are available for adults with little to no dance experience and provide you with the basic terminology and technique needed to dive into our beginner classes. We offer these classes in tap and ballet, available in four-week increments to help you jumpstart your dance journey. Learn more about our absolute beginner and beyond the basics courses.
If you had a mix of “yes” and “no” answers: You will work best in our beginner or intermediate courses. These classes require very basic knowledge of dance and are built to slowly break down technique and choreography.
If your answers are all “yes”: You are likely ready for our advanced levels. These classes require a wealth of knowledge in dance and move at a fast pace with complex choreography and technique.
Still unsure? You are always welcome to start at a lower level and work your way up after your first class. We do not place dancers, so take what you think will make you feel most confident.
Choosing a style
We offer a wide variety of dance styles so you can find something that best supports your interests and goals. Here is a quick breakdown of each offering:
- Ballet: One of our most popular classes, this is a technical style focused on posture, grace, balance, rhythm, and strength. Our instructors teach classical ballet, characterized by precise steps and fluid movement. We recommend ballet if you hope to improve your coordination, or even embrace a graceful spirit.
- Progressing Ballet Technique (PBT): PBT is a codified class designed to improve strength, stability, and muscle memory in service of ballet technique. This class is recommended for clients who actively take ballet and want to support their training.
- Tap: Tap involves the feet to create rhythmic and percussive sounds on the floor. This class is perfect for anyone wanting to master their musicality or precision skills.
- Musical Theatre: Great for embracing your inner Broadway! We recommend this class for folks who love music, facial expressions, storytelling, or acting. You’ll learn fun choreography from a musical, typically blending jazz technique and character work.
- Hip-Hop: Hip-Hop is a high-energy dance form mixed with stylized movements and grounded footwork. This class is encouraged for dancers wanting to find their own groove and look cool while doing it!
- Contemporary/Modern: Our contemporary/modern classes are focused on large fluid movements, groundedness, emotional storytelling, improvisation, and exploration. For dancers wanting a feel-good, full-body moment, these classes are for you!
- Jazz/Jazz Pop: Jazz/Jazz pop involves sharp and stylized choreography. Here, you will learn basic dance terminology and move to classical or commercialized jazz music. We encourage these classes for dancers wanting to perform upbeat choreography and utilize their sassy skills.
- Leaps and Turns: Our leaps and turns class focuses on workshopping various jumps and turns. Think a jazz technique class where you’ll learn helpful tips on how to master these skills. Consider this course if you are mainly interested in technical movement!
- Heels: A powerful and confidence-boosting class, this course introduces the basics of dancing in heels. Take this course if you want to feel empowered and look hot!
- K-Pop: Learn choreography inspired by your favorite K-Pop artists! This class involves a fun mix of jazz and hip-hop dance, and it is perfect for all fans of Korean pop culture.
- Circuit Conditioning, Yoga, 305 Fitness, SWERK: These classes are built to improve your endurance, strength, and stability. Our yoga class focuses on meditation and breath, while Circuit Conditioning, 305 Fitness, and SWERK are high-impact, incorporating weights, muscle building, and cardio.
There is no wrong place to begin when you’re with us! Our incredible instructors will help you at every step of the way. And remember, you can always modify or level down if you are still unsure about what placement works for you. Wherever you end up, we are excited to move with you soon!
To book your first class, sign up using our two-week trial for $29. This means two weeks of unlimited dance classes of any level and style!