The Return on Investment in Dance: Answering Your Burning Questions

If you've ever found yourself Googling questions about dance classes, you’re not alone! Whether you're a parent looking to sign up your child for dance or you're an adult starting your own dance journey, there’s a lot to consider. To help answer some of the most common questions about dance, we turned to Kelsey Nelson, a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the dance industry. Kelsey’s expertise ranges from performing in major motion pictures like Anchorman II and Rock of Ages, to teaching, choreographing, and judging across North America. She also created her own conditioning program for dancers and has been honored as a Master Instructor for prestigious dance organizations. 

Here, Kelsey answers some of the top questions about dance classes to help you get started and make the most of your dance experience.

1. What are dance classes?

Dance classes are structured lessons where dancers learn various styles, techniques, and choreography under the guidance of an experienced instructor. They provide an opportunity to develop physical coordination, discipline, and artistic expression. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced dancer, dance classes allow you to improve your skills, connect with others, and grow in confidence.

2. What is a good starting point for how many hours of class you should take and how many hours should you practice when you're first starting out?

When you’re just starting out, it’s essential to keep a balance between classes and practice. Typically, beginners should start with 1-2 classes per week to get familiar with the basics. Alongside that, practicing at home for an additional 30 minutes to an hour can help reinforce what you learn in class. The goal at this stage is to build muscle memory, body awareness, and understanding of the technique. It’s important not to overwhelm yourself at first—take it step by step.

3. Should dancers practice at home?

Yes, dancers should definitely practice at home. While studio classes provide the guidance and structure you need, home practice helps solidify what you’ve learned. Practicing at home lets you focus on specific moves, work on flexibility, or refine your technique without the pressure of a group. The key is consistency and listening to your body—don’t push too hard too soon, but keep practicing regularly.

4. What are some things you should consider in looking for a dance studio?

When choosing a dance studio, consider the following:

• Instructor Experience: Are they trained and experienced in the style you're interested in?
• Class Environment: Is it supportive and welcoming? A positive, encouraging environment will help you grow.
• Class Structure: Are the classes well-organized and cater to different skill levels?
• Studio Reputation: What do current students say about the studio? Word-of-mouth can be a great indicator of the studio's quality.
• Schedule Flexibility: Does the studio offer classes that fit your schedule and personal goals? Taking the time to find a studio with a strong reputation and experienced instructors will pay off in your dance journey.

5. Understanding the return on investment in dance...from beginner to advanced.

Investing in dance is about more than just learning how to dance—it’s about life skills. From the very beginning, dance helps build confidence as you face challenges, meet new people, and learn new things. As you progress, you also develop strong teamwork skills, as dance requires collaboration, support, and appreciation of others. These qualities are valuable not just in dance, but in any career or personal pursuit. As a dancer advances, the techniques, discipline, and confidence developed over time continue to pay off.

6. Can beginner dancers take advanced dance classes?

It’s generally not recommended for beginners to jump straight into advanced classes. While advanced dancers can handle complex movements, beginners still need to develop the fundamentals like body awareness, movement technique, and understanding basic body mechanics. In an advanced class, beginners may find themselves overwhelmed and discouraged. It's best to build a strong foundation in beginner and intermediate classes before moving on to more advanced levels. However, intermediate dancers can sometimes attend advanced classes with proper guidance and by adjusting their expectations.

7. Why are dance studios better than learning to dance on YouTube or TikTok?

While YouTube and TikTok offer fun ways to learn choreography, they often lack the fundamental teaching needed for long-term growth. Dance studios offer structured learning where experienced instructors can provide real-time feedback on technique, alignment, and style. They also teach important things like body mechanics, breath support, and how to move safely. If you're serious about developing your dance skills, studios are the place to learn technique and history behind the styles, which TikTok and YouTube can't offer in the same way.

8. Homework/What advice would you give for someone just getting started with dance?

My number one piece of advice for new dancers is this: Don’t be afraid to be bad at it. Everyone starts somewhere, and being a beginner is part of the journey. Progress comes with practice, patience, and dedication. Dance is about passion and fun, not perfection. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the learning process, and don't worry about being perfect right away. And don't forget—ask questions! Whether it's through online communities, teachers, or fellow dancers, there’s always someone willing to help.

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Watch the full episode here!