AIBU to learn dance class in my 40s?

[want2dance]

Always loved dancing. As a kid ridiculed by my family to not looking as 'graceful' as my sis while dancing. I was compared to monkey in a joking way. It made me hugely conscious.

Now in my early 40s, really want to join a dance class. I have depression and think it will be a fun thing to do. I have time and I can pay for classes.

Can anyone suggest what would be a good dance style to begin with? Don't want to join ballet.

I am in London. Thank you :)

Oh definitely do it! Is there any style that stands out to you at all? Anything that inspires you?

Look for a Ceroc class. Lots of fun it's a partnered dance but you don't need to go with a partner. Lots of social events too.

Street dance is great fun! (I’m almost 37)

ceroc, salsa - zumba. I absolutely love a good zumba class.

Go for it OP! No suggestions on type of dance but I wish I had the same level of confidence as you

How about Zumba? That's lots of fun and people of all ages, I'm not sure if it technically qualifies as dance but it feels like a dance class to me!

I imagine in London you could do anything! I've done allsorts in a much smaller city - belly dancing, flamenco, west African, tap. Would like to try street and jazz/musicals type too. Absolutely go for it! These classes are full of people of all ages - lots of retired women for example. You would be quite average age in many places I imagine.

I went back to dancing 6 years ago aged 42. I now do ballroom, latin and sequence about twice a week. I have a partner but you don't have to have one.

You should definitely do this!

If you've really no idea what then maybe break it down in to thinking if you want to do something alone, in a group or with a partner. Something freeform or precise, modern or classic, break a sweat or graceful and calming... etc

Go for it! I do street dance/hip hop. Frame is really good for classes if there's one near you.

I'm 34 and not at all graceful. But I enjoy it!

I can't advise you on dance types, but I'm 45 & took up a very energetic form of yoga about 6 months ago.

It was about three weeks before I wasn't in agony the next morning, but I'm bloody loving it and there's still a sense of triumph when I get to the end of a class without stopping. I used to have depression & exercise is definitely one of the things that stops it coming back! Good luck.

I used to do beginner street dance/hip hop at Pineapple in Covent Garden. Look at their timetable, they have everything.

www.pineapple.uk.com/timetable

Good luck, OP.

I reckon this is a great idea and you're never too old - all the best!

I started Zumba a couple of years ago. I’m a lot older than early 40s.

Go for it!
I went to an adult ballet class and there was a broad mix of ages and experience and I really loved it until life got in the way.

I hope you find a class you enjoy.

Thanks everyone for your lovely posts of encouragement. Sorry I had been away so couldn’t reply.
I kind of know what style of dance I would like to do but not 100% sure.
I like music with fast beats. I have noticed it’s positive impact on my mood.
Is contemporary too slow? I want to join a style where I enjoy music as well. Thanks

Do you want the sort of class that works towards a performance/exam. Or just a turn up shake your groove thang.

Do you want to learn moves and follow a leader/teacher or be allowed to explore how you want to move.

Do you have/need a partner?

Narrow it down - and then try a few taster sessions till you find the one that works for you.

I live in a small town and I'd say there are at least 10 different dance styles I could try if I wanted. I'd imagine you'll have even more choices in London. Lots are advertised on Facebook on the 'local' pages.

Dancing is the BEST!

@TheNemesisOfLame, sorry I had guests over and couldn't get chance to reply.

I would like to learn the moves and follow a teacher.

I will be dancing solo. I will look for taster sessions. Thanks :)

Line dancing doesn't need a partner. Find out what kind of music they use - I mistakenly assumed it was always country music - far from it!!

We go to a ballroom & Latin class and are much older than you . Half the class comes alone. Some weeks there are more women, some weeks there are more men. The tutors just dance with the people without partners - it works.

Hope you find something to suit you.

I cannot suggest one but good luck and hope you find one.