In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual dance classes have become popular alternatives to in-person sessions. Using videoconferencing to connect to your teachers and fellow students can be a fantastic way to safely learn. Make the most of your classes by following some best practices and avoiding some common mistakes. 

Do:

Dress appropriately. 

You may not be visiting the studio in person, but it's still important to follow the dress code. Dressing appropriately will help you stay comfortable when moving around and will help you feel prepared for class. Your teachers and fellow students will still be able to see you via your video camera, so you'll want to look ready to dance.

Prepare your space. 

You will want plenty of space to move around and privacy to hold your class, so choose a space in your home that best allows you to do this. It should be well-lit and quiet without any obstructions so that you can move around freely. Some students go out to their backyard, while others move all the furniture to the side in a spare room. 

Don't: 

Keep your mic on. 

With multiple students checking in to a class, everyone having their microphones on can quickly become distracting. There's likely background noise in your home, which could overpower the teacher's mic and prevent the class from continuing smoothly. Mute yourself until you have a question or a comment, at which point you can temporarily turn your mic back on until you're finished talking. Because they can see you, you can always use body language to communicate, such as with a thumbs up or smile.

Be late. 

Plan to be in front of your computer at least five minutes before class starts. This gives you time to get your water, get set up with your video on and your mic muted, and prepare yourself mentally. You won't hold up the dance class, and you'll avoid the stress of logging in late.

If you're ready to try a virtual dance class, contact the qualified instructors at Kick It Up Dance in Long Beach, CA. They offer both in-person and virtual dance classes for local residents. They specialize in adult fitness, teaching classes for adults at every fitness level and dance experience level. They offer something for everything, with options including ballet, tap, jazz, and hip-hop dance. Get started on their website or enroll for your first free class by calling (562) 430-1812.