Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear to dance?

Sparkle, lycra & skimpy - just kidding!

Comfortable clothes that give you the freedom to GROOVE. Your feet are more important - you want to wear shoes that are secure around your feet so that you don't leave them behind as you mambo across the floor.

Girls, if you choose to wear heels, I recommend they are no higher than you would normally wear. Most of the dancing is on the balls of your feet, so if your killer heels are already 3 inches, your calves will not take kindly after an hour of dancing.

Guys, the less grip on the soles of your shoes, the better as you spin and turn to the rhythm.

Do I need to have a dance partner?

You don't need to bring a partner. Nice though that is, I am sure that other people will come on their own. As long as you are prepared to take the role of either the leader or the follower, I have found that class participants that don't have the same partner each week tend to share their learning curve, and find some great friends along the way!

Are there any medical conditions that would stop me from dancing?

You will know your body better than most, and thus know your limitations. Please make the instructor aware of any medical condition so that they can discuss the possible adaptations you can make to moves. There is very little that would stop you from dancing - we just need to find your level. Seek medical advice if you haven't exercised for a while, or are nervous about the increased physical movement you are about to take on.

Will I get all hot and sweaty?

Salsa is an aerobic exercise and it is most probable that you will. As you will be so close to other dancers it is important that you consider personal hygiene. Preparation before you dance makes for a more comfortable night. Deodorant, antiperspirant, perfume etc are a good measure, but don't go overboard as that can be as equally offensive. Avoiding bad breathe is also important so make sure you have wrestled with your toothbrush before taking to the dance floor. If ever in doubt, I have deodorant, mints and hand wipes in my bag. I even know a few guys that bring an extra shirt if they are expecting a good night of dancing.

I am coming along on my own, and I'm nervous that I haven't the courage to ask someone to dance?

Dancing etiquette is that it is considered rude to turn down a request to dance. We have all been through or are currently going through the dancing learning curve, and thus should be considerate to others. Anyone can ask anyone to dance! Even if you have come along with your partner, it doesn't mean you have to dance with them all night. We are here for the dance experience......go and experience it with as many people as possible.

What music do you recommend I buy to dance to?

I have listed 3 top CD’s. As a beginner the strong regular slow beat of this recommended cd should help. There is also a classic and what is hot now recommendation. Click on the link to be directed to the site to purchase. Enjoy!

Who would I expect to dance with?

Dancing with Groove is a very social time and you will dance with most people in the room during the class.  This is not 'wife swopping' you will just be sharing the great dancing experience with lots of other people.  If your agenda is more than this, this is not the place for you.  We only have fun loving people come to our classes so we look forward to seeing you there.

I am going to come and take part in Zumba, what should I wear?

We can’t kid you, you will get hot and probably perspire so we suggest you wear comfortable work out gear such as tshirt and leggings. Footwear recommended are pumps that don’t have too much grip (running trainers aren’t good as they have a lot of tread). If you are getting technical you want to have a ‘spin spot’. If you look at the tread, the pattern should have a circle on the ball of your foot.

I haven’t done Zumba before, do I have to wait for a course to start?

No, you can join us at any time. The structure of the class is that you will learn around 4 moves to each song, some of which will repeat in other songs. Over time you will get to know the songs and their moves. The instructor will cue each move and they relate to the chorus or instrumental. There is no right or wrong, just safe so you are encouraged to have your own style.

I would like to bring my daughter with me to Zumba – is she old enough?

Zumba is for 16yrs plus. This is because of the nature of the moves as we will bump, grind, wiggle and giggle. For children we will be running the junior version called ‘Zumbatomic’. This starts in October so please keep in touch so that she is the one of the first to join us.

Is there any physical reason I couldn’t take part in Zumba?

When you come to your first class you will fill in a medical questionnaire which will prompt you to consider any limitations you may have. You do need to discuss these with the instructor so she can give you alternatives. You know your body better than anyone else – use your common sense. If you are lucky enough to be pregnant we are afraid that Zumba isn’t for you unless the instructor is qualified to teach you. Please call and check.