Beginners - Lindy Hop & Balboa

Lindy hop at the Old Duke Br

So you're interested in trying swing dancing? Maybe you've never stepped onto a dance floor, or you have some experience in other dance styles but are curious about swing? No problem! 


Our beginners/fundamentals classes will give you a good foundation in techniques and moves, as well as the history and culture of the various swing dances.



Lindy Hop


We teach weekly beginners swing dance classes in Southville, and also run beginners weekend courses in Saint Werburgh's. We teach very similar content in both, so if you're looking to start your swing dance adventure you either need to do a beginners weekend or 8-12 weekly classes before you should know enough to join Level 1. 


Weekly Drop-in Classes


When: Wednesdays, 20:30-21:30 (+30 extra mins to practice what you've learned). Session finishes at 22:00

Where: Southbank Club, Southville, BS3 1DB (upstairs studio)

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Term dates: 8th January to 16th July 2025 and from 3rd September to 10th of December 2025

How much: £10/class, or £8 concessions

Format: These are run as weekly drop in classes, so you can join any time! 

These fun and friendly classes will teach you the fundamentals of lindy hop. You'll learn the basic steps and footwork as well as some of the core moves and variation which make up this wonderful dance.

No partner needed, we will rotate people around the class so everyone will have plenty of time to dance


Weekend Courses in Easton

Our intensive beginners courses run over 8 hours at the weekend (4 hours each day), during which you'll learn some of the basic foundations. After this you'll be ready to attend our weekly Level 1 classes in Easton. 


Follow us on Dance cloud for our upcoming courses:

https://bristol-swing-riot.dancecloud.com/


Our upcoming courses are emailed out in advance for booking through Dancecloud, and usually sell-out quick! If you're interested in booking a place please join the beginners mailing list (from the Contact page) and we'll let you know when bookings are open!



Balboa


We don't currently have any weekly beginners classes for balboa, but run beginners courses at the weekend for those that want to start this beautiful dance. For more information sign up to the Balboa mailing list on the Contact page

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Below are some of the frequently asked questions about coming to a swing dance class, but if you have any other questions please get in touch via the Contact page.
FAQ
Do I need to bring a partner?

We change partners throughout the class so you are welcome to come alone and meet new people, or share the fun with a friend

What should I wear?

The important thing is comfort so anything you are happy moving around in is fine. Bear in mind you'll be dancing with another person so avoid loose flowing clothes which they might get tangled up in!

It can get warm in classes so jeans aren't always a good idea in warmer months.

 

How energetic is the class - do I need to be really fit?

We always start off with the basics slowly so you can be of any fitness level. Swing dancing is a great way to get active and you can work up to faster speeds.

What kind of shoes should I wear?

This is the million dollar question... Ideally you want shoes that both have a slippy sole so you can spin on the floor, but also have good support and cushioning to keep your knees protected. We've yet to find the perfect shoe, but go for low friction soles as a minimum. Cheap plimsolls are a good starter and you can add insoles for cushioning. If you want to wear heels make sure they are low block heels (not high or pointy) Essentially go for something you comfortable hopping, skipping, jumping and spinning in!

Does the man have to lead and the woman follow in the partnership?

In short, No!

In partner dancing we tend to have a lead role and a follow role : the lead initiates most of the direction and momentum, and the follow listens and responds. These roles are not gender specific and in our Beginners course we switch roles throughout the weekend so everyone learns both roles.