Intro to Dance

Class Overview

Intro to Dance introduces foundational dance technique, rhythm awareness, posture, and movement confidence in a structured and supportive environment.

Athletes learn basic ballet positions, beginner jazz movements, musical timing, and performance confidence.

The goal is strong posture + rhythm control + confident expression.

“Strong posture. Sharp movements. Confident performance.”

Program

Recreational Dance

Level

Beginner

Entry Expectations

Athlete should demonstrate:

• Ability to follow instruction
• Willingness to move in front of others
• Basic listening skills

No dance experience required.

Developmental Objectives (VERY IMPORTANT)

Athlete should develop:

• Basic ballet positions (1st, 2nd)
• Arm positions (low, middle, high)
• Pointed toes
• Balance on one foot
• Simple turns
• Understanding of 8-count rhythm
• Performance confidence

No choreography without posture control.

Coaching Cues

“Stand tall.”

“Point your toes.”

“Arms strong.”

“Stretch long.”

“Smile and perform.”

“Count it out.”

Keep cues simple and repeatable.

Common Errors & Fixes

Issue: Slouched posture
→ Fix: Wall posture drill.

Issue: Bent knees in jumps
→ Fix: Jump & freeze challenge.

Issue: Unpointed toes
→ Fix: Toe point drill seated on floor.

Issue: Off timing
→ Slow count repetition (5-6-7-8).

Issue: Low confidence
→ Pair athletes and practice in small groups.

Safety & Structure Notes

• Clear floor spacing.
• No advanced leaps yet.
• Focus on alignment.
• Encourage expression, not perfection.
• Correct gently but consistently.

Confidence grows through repetition.

60-Minute Class Schedule

Creative. Structured. Technique-based.

0:00–5:00 – Welcome & Energy Warm-Up

• Line up
• Roll call
• Introduce move of the day
• Quick freeze dance game

Set tone = positive and structured.

5:00–15:00 – Dynamic Warm-Up

• March in place
• Arm swings
• Side steps
• Light jumps
• Stretch sequence

Activate body before technique.

15:00–25:00 – Ballet Foundations Block

• 1st position feet
• 2nd position feet
• Arm positions
• Balance holds
• Relevé intro

Focus on posture.

25:00–35:00 – Jazz / Movement Skills

• Grapevine
• Step touch
• Turn basics
• Jump & land
• Travel across floor

Keep movement controlled.

35:00–50:00 – Choreography Block

Teach simple 8-count combination.

Example:

Step touch – Step touch – Turn – Pose
Jump – Clap – Walk – Finish

Break into small pieces.

Repetition builds confidence.

50:00–57:00 – Performance Practice

Small groups perform combination.

Encourage:
• Big arms
• Big smiles
• Strong finish

Build stage presence early.

57:00–60:00 – Cool Down & Reflection

• Light stretch
• Ask: “What did you learn today?”
• Positive reinforcement
• Dismiss with energy

End confident.

Class Progression Formula

1️⃣ Posture
2️⃣ Position
3️⃣ Balance
4️⃣ Rhythm
5️⃣ Choreography
6️⃣ Performance

Technique first, performance second.

Conditioning Focus

• Core control
• Balance stability
• Toe point strength
• Rhythm awareness
• Performance confidence

Intro to Dance builds foundation for:

• Beginner Ballet
• Jazz Level 1
• Performance Team
• Competitive Dance

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Intermediate Dance

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Intro to Cheer