How to choose the right Ballroom teacher

To me, the most important choice you have to make when you start dance lessons is choosing the right teacher. Because the right teacher can guide you in making the other decisions. There are as many types of teachers as there are types of students so the trick is to pick the type that is right for you. Some things to consider:

1. Fun vs. Professional
Are you looking to have fun and just pick up some dance moves on the side? If that's the case, then the Facility and Type of Dance decisions are probably more important to you. I personally find that dance is always fun, so if I can learn the right technique at the same time that I'm having fun then it's perfect!

2. Male vs. Female
You need one primary dance instructor and honestly the gender doesn't matter. A properly trained instructor will be able to teach both "lead" and "follow" partners. Some people prefer instructors of a different gender so that they can dance with them during lessons. Some find it easier to learn from an instructor of the same gender because they can "mimick" the movement more easily. There is no right choice here. Whichever feels better for you is the way you should go. However, whichever one you choose as your primary, you should definitely opt for some classes with another teacher occasionally for just those reasons I mentioned. Sometimes a dance studio will bring in a well-known competitive dance couple for dance workshops. Take advantage of that. It's a great oppportunity.

3. A Professional dancer vs. an Accredited dance teacher
First, a professional dancer is anyone that has ever received money for dancing. Basically, anyone can call themselves a professional. If you watch So You Think You Can Dance, you've seen it for yourself. People call themselves a professional and set themselves up as teachers when they can neither dance nor teach. It's amazing. To prevent yourself from falling prey to this, you can make sure your dance instructor has been certified to teach. Don't get me wrong. There are some fantastic teachers out there that have never been certified; however, why take a chance on stumbling onto one of those? Someone that has been certified means that the instructor passed a series of tests designed to evaluate their competency at teaching dance. I feel the best thing you can do when you are starting out, is to find a certified teacher!

Note: The two major dance certifications to look for are from the Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing (ISTD) and the National Dance Council of America (NDCA).

• The ISTD is the world's leading dance examinations board. Formed in 1904, it is a registered educational charity and is the only organization that covers the full spectrum of dance examinations. You can search for registered members online on their website.
  
• The NDCA is the official governing body for dancing in the United States. You can search for registered members online on their website.

Considering these three things will help you narrow down your options for dance teachers but the final decision should always come down to how you feel when you are with your dance instructor? Are your classes fun? Do you feel inspired? Do you feel a sense of accomplishment? Do you feel like you are learning and growing? If so, that's your best indicator that you've found the perfect teacher for you!