Hello everyone!

I recently started an adult dance class at my studio. Just wondering if anyone had some insight on what works, what doesn't work, etc.

What kinds of things do you teach?

What do your students enjoy?

I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!

I have been teaching adults for years. I tend to use the same lesson plans that I use for the kids with a few exceptions:

1. We don't turn alot. You will find that adults in general do not like to do inside turns, pirouettes, etc.

2. Even though we stretch every week, I never have them do splits. I do give them 3 - 4 minutes of personal warmup time to do what they wish, and some will work on splits, but that is strictly their choice.

3. I don't cover the more complicated jumps with them. I still do many jumps though - these they think are a good challenge.

I tend to do a good amount of strengthing in adult classes too - they like that alot.

I make performance in the annual show an optional item. The class decides as a group if they wish to be in the show or not. You will retain more adults in class if you do it this way...

Hi there!

What style of dance is your adult class? I would be more than happy to give you some pointers and tips! The main thing that will determine your structure is the type of students you have... are they more recreational, looking for a fun way to relieve stress and lose weight? Have they taken class in the past and are serious about getting back into it? Or a combination of both?

Let me know and I will be happy to help you!!!

What do you call adults? 20-40 or 40-60 does make a difference.

I am also curious as to what style you are teaching.

The age range of my adults is 23-46. They are a very diverse bunch. I keep my classes upbeat and fun. Most of my adults are looking for something that can help them lose a couple pounds, so I keep everything energetic to make them sweat.

None of my students are looking to start a career in dance so I keep the choreography pretty light. Nothing too complicated becuase they can get frustrated, but nothing to simple where they get bored. It's all about feeling the vibe of the class. If you think you can kick the intensity up, then go for it. You may be surprised that they want to learn more difficult things. It's all about knowing your students.

We do a pretty good stretch in the beginning of class and then cool down at the end. For some reason my students become irritated if we don't do a cool down at the end, so I always allow enough time for that.

Hope this helps and good luck!

Thanks for the feedback so far! My class consists of women in their late 30's to mid 50's. They want to get in a workout and learn some basic dance skills along the way.

My classes are the same as Ms_Tiffy... I have a very diverse group as well... ranging anywhere from 18 - 74!!!! If I get a more serious adult student, I recommend them to join our Level III / IV classes... Don't get me wrong, my adults work very hard and learn a lot, but it's just a different energy...

Ballet Class: I give a one hour ballet barre class... I give brain teaser combinations and they really work hard to get them... I do a lot of different inner thigh strengthening exercises as well as a long set of eleves/releves... they LOVE to work hard and get sore... different stretching exercises and turn-out exercises, etc... every once in a while, I will do some easy center work and across the floors with options A, B, and C so they can work at their own pace. Options are ALWAYS good to have!

Tap: Center floor warm-up into across the floor steps along with progressions... then a center combo... I am ALWAYS changing up the music, old new, disco, Michael Jackson, techno, you name it... I have been blessed with a GREAT group so they are easy to please! I don't spend a TON of time "perfecting" things... of course I teach them and show them the way, but because they aren't out to be 'professionals' I let them focus on getting the steps (and some just getting across the floor on both feet!!!)They are excited when they see their progress... it's truly awesome for me to see too!!!

Just a few examples... if you need more ideas and suggestions let me know! My adults always know that they are going to come in and get a good mind and body work-out... and a bunch of laughs on the way!!! the best way to create your class is to figure out what your students want from you... and then give it to them!!! ) HAVE FUN!!!!

My adult class consists of all ladies ages 28 to 72. THe 72 year old is a former dance teacher!

We do a warm -up/stretch to music, lots of isolations. No splits! We do kicks, a few leaps and turns across the floor. I then teach some jazz combinations, I change the combo and music about every three to four weeks. Then we tap for about 25 minutes. The class is a variety of levels and I try to teach basic steps/combos and then add a twist for the more advanced dancers.

Everyone seems to enjoy and yes, they do the recital. A jazz and a tap. They live to get on that stage every year with their fabulous costumes!!

My ladies enjoy the time just being together and having fun. I enjoy it as well. Lots of wonderful friendships have been formed from my ladies class over the years.