to want to learn to dance in my 50s

[RedForsythia]

I'm fit and energetic and also in need of more of a social life. Was thinking that dancing would be a sociable, fun thing to do. But I don't know how to dance, don't have a dance partner or even a friend to go with

AIBU to think that dancing, or learning to, is a good idea?

What sort of dancing op? There's lots of different types you can do that don't require you to have a partner.

It is a very good idea. There has been much research recently into the benefits to mental health as well as physical. You don't necessarily need a partner for many types of dance either (Salsa and LeRoc can be done individually for example) or could do a dance based exercise class like Zumba or FitSteps to get you started and meet like minded people who could recommend other local classes.

It's a brilliant idea, you're never too late to start dancing!

Are there any Scottish Country dancing classes near you? (Warning - you could well be the youngest one there, though London branch is quite young....)

I have a friend who's in his late forties, and he recently took up ballroom dancing. He's loving it, and he went on his own. He says most people go on their own, it's a good way of meeting people.

I imagined I'd do something like Ceroc which I believe is like jive. I'm not far from Birmingham so guess there will be classes around. Was a bit worried about going alone and everyone else knowing what they were doing.

The Scottish Country dancing sounds fun too Melanie

Great idea!

Have a look at flamenco - great fun

Birmingham scottish dancers

Srsly, Scottish dancing is easy, you dont need a partner, and by the time you factor in weekly classes, Christmas parties, St Andrews Balls, Burns Nights and the rest, your social calendar will be full!

I'm a bit of an evangelist, I admit, happy to impart any more info or introductions.

Absolutely not, you're never too old! Dance is so much fun and you don't even notice that you're exercising.

I dance with people aged from about 12 to 70 (judging by a quick look around the studios that is) and from total beginners to professionals. It's a hobby that everyone can do.

You'll only need a partner for a few kinds of dance. I do ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, street and hip hop and have never needed a partner for any of those.

I remember learning the highland fling as a child in my ballet grade exams.
It was very energetic.
All ages of people go without a partner to Salsa and Ceroc where there are surprisingly many single men and women.

Personally I go linedancing as prefer to dance solo.

I'd like to learn to dance in my 30s, especially hip hop / urban style dance and don't have anyone to go with either. Personally I'd like to be fitter & thinner before I start though so I could be in my 50s by that time...

OP go for it, I bet you would really enjoy it.

Thanks for the link Melanie

Anyone know anywhere for ceroc?

Belly dancing. Women of all ages. It's a very supportive community.

Go for it, what have you got to lose!! Pfffttt 50, that's not even middle aged.

A single friend of mine (45) goes to Ceroc. She made new friends very quickly, and spends all night dancing. There seems to be an unspoken rule that anyone can ask anyone to dance and it's considered rude to refuse! I personally didn't like it because it's not specific enough what you do with your feet (I am more used to ballroom dancing).
There is a teaching session at the start of the evening and then social dancing till late. Good luck!