Learn to swing dance and get fit at these classes
You'll be sure to stand out at one of NYC’s 1920s and 1930s–style parties if you learn to swing dance at these fitness classes.
Tue Sep 11 2012
If you’ve ever stood on the edge of the dance floor at the Jazz Age Lawn Parties on Governors Island, marveling at the couples who know how to move, here’s your chance to learn how to swing dance at one of these basics and beginners’ classes. Sessions tend to begin with solo work to help you get the steps down, then move on to routines with a partner.
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Beginner and Intermediate Class at Brooklyn Swings
Your initiation into this lively style kicks off with an intro to solo moves in front of a mirror. Once you’ve got the key steps down, you’ll partner up for the real dancing: Couples step, rock-step and side pass for an hour, and alternate between following and leading. You might stumble on fellow twosomes as you work through more complex combinations in this slightly cramped space, but no one seems to mind. When your core and legs are aching, just picture Cat Deeley cheering you on. • The Muse, 32D South 1st St between Kent and Wythe Aves, Williamsburg, Brooklyn (brooklynswings.com). Tue 7–8pm; single class $15, four classes $40.
Swing/Lindy Basics at Dance Manhattan
You’ll get to know your classmates right away in this four-week course: After being paired with an initial partner, you’ll switch off every few minutes. Thighs and calves are tingling by round three as you master triple steps and inside-turn passes. By the fourth class, you’ll have mastered the basics, as well as fancier twists and spins. With your freshly toned legs, you’ll have the confidence to hoof it in social settings, not to mention improved balance. • 39 W 19th St between Fifth and Sixth Aves (212-807-0802, dancemanhattan.com). Thu 7–8pm; single class $25, four-week course $85.
Introductory Swing at Stepping Out Studios
This gratis workshop adds a few salsa moves to the standard swing mix. Anywhere from five to 30 students attend each session, but you’ll usually get plenty of attention. After learning the basics solo, you’ll try more impressive moves like the Suzie-Q and crossover, and you’ll work with partners. Stepping Out’s method combines the slower West Coast style and the faster East Coast variation, though the emphasis changes depending on the teacher. Regardless of the style, the rapid-fire moves not only shred your leg muscles, but also give your lower back and arms a killer workout. • 37 W 26th St between Broadway and Sixth Ave (646-742-9400, steppingoutstudios.com). Fri 8:30–9:30pm; free.
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