Dance Gear: What Do You Need?

Compared to other hobbies and some sports, dancing can be much easier to begin and less expensive to get started. That being said, you will still need to buy some gear and other items and bring them with you when you start going to dancing class. Here are some of the essentials.

Dancing Shoes

As dancing is mostly done on your feet, good shoes are essential. A casual or beginning dance class may only require you to wear comfortable shoes, but more advanced types classes will require specific shoes. Depending on the type of dancing you are learning you may need tap shoes, ballet slippers, or jazz shoes.
Before your first class, ask someone in the dancing program what type of shoes would be most appropriate and would provide the most support to your feet while you dance. Unfortunately, some styles of dance expect women to wear heels. If this is the case, try to find the least uncomfortable pair you can find and make sure they provide good balance.

Clothing

The clothing you need to bring also varies dramatically depending on what type of dancing you are doing. Leotards and yoga pants can be useful because they are light and won’t inhibit your flexibility. Once you begin performing you may also need to buy outfits such as dresses, tutus, and dress clothes made for dancing.

Towel

If you bring nothing else besides your clothes, bring a towel. You will be shocked by how much you sweat while dancing. This can cause you to become cold or sick if you don’t wipe it away, and it can also make it more difficult to dance with others if your hands and arms are covered in sweat.

Band-Aids and Antibiotic Ointment

Dancing is not for the faint of heart. You will fall, and when you do, you will often scratch and scrape your arms and legs. Bring a few Band-Aids with you just in case. Antibiotic ointment will help prevent infection and scarring after you get cuts on your hands and arms.

Water and a Snack

Because you’ll be exercising and sweating profusely, it’s very important that you stay hydrated. Remember to drink plenty of water before and also remember to pack a bottle of water that you can sip from between lessons. A healthy snack can be a great way to keep your energy up if you are having a long dance practice.

Sources: http://www.backstage.com/advice-for-actors/dancers/20-essential-items-to-pack-in-your-dance-bag/

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