Drop-in dance classes can be so intimidating—especially when it feels like everyone but you knows what they’re doing.

You walk in and hear: “We’re learning a full routine today, and then we’ll film it at the end.” And suddenly your brain short circuits. Sound familiar?

You’re not alone. Whether you're a total beginner or someone returning to class after a break, it’s normal to feel lost, out of place, or like you just want to disappear.

I know because I’ve been there—even with years of dance experience under my belt. But I pushed through, and now drop-in classes are where I thrive. Here's how I went from anxious and overwhelmed to confident and choreo-ready—and how you can too.

And if you’d rather start small before heading into your next drop-in, grab my free Dancehall class preview here—it’s designed to help you get moving at your own pace, no pressure.

▶️ Try the Free Class

1. Practice Outside of Class

You don’t have to master everything in one hour. What helped me most was practicing as soon as I got home—even if I forgot some parts. Repeating the movements while they were still fresh helped me build confidence, clean up my technique, and improve week by week.

💡 Pro tip: The more you go over the choreo on your own, the faster your body starts to remember it.

2. Stand in the Front (Yes, Really)

It’s tempting to hide in the back when you're nervous—but that’s where it’s hardest to learn. Standing in the front helps you see the instructor clearly, catch details, and feel more focused. You're less distracted and more engaged.

If you're taking an online class, congrats—you’re already front and center! 🎉

3. Record Yourself in Class and at Home

I used to be super self-conscious about recording myself, but once I started, it changed everything. Filming myself during class helped me see how I was doing in the moment. Filming at home helped me track my progress and refine the moves at my own pace.

It’s not about being perfect—it’s about noticing what’s working, making small adjustments, and watching yourself grow with every rep.

4. Take a Private Lesson

This was one of the biggest turning points for me. When I was struggling to keep up in class, I booked a few private lessons—and everything changed. I got to work at my own pace, ask questions, and get feedback that was specific to my movement and style.

Now I offer private sessions for that exact reason—to help dancers build confidence, clean up technique, and feel more prepared walking into any class.
👉🏾 If you’re interested, you can book a private session with me here.

Sometimes all it takes is one-on-one support to start feeling like the dancer you want to be.

5. Focus on Performance, Not Perfection

Nobody remembers whether you nailed every count—they remember the energy.
Throw yourself into the routine. Smile. Hit those moves with confidence, even if you have to modify a few things. Make it yours.

Your job isn’t to look like the instructor. It’s to bring your own flavor and vibe.

6. Don’t Give Up

I felt awkward and embarrassed in so many classes, but I kept showing up. Every week. Even when it was messy.
(Like when I sweated so much my lace front lifted 🫠)

The more you go, the easier it gets. The more you mess up, the faster you grow. Show up, try again, and give yourself credit for being brave enough to dance in the first place.

✨ You Got This—Now Let’s Dance

You don’t have to be the best in the room to belong there. You just have to show up.

And if you’re ready to build your confidence in a no-pressure space, I’ve got something for you:
👉🏾 Grab my free Dancehall class preview to warm up, learn beginner-friendly moves, and start feeling more at home in your body.