Grooming... (Before the dance)

Cleanliness: Remember, if it goes right, you're going to be near someone or several someones throughout the dance. That means you need to smell nice. Take a bath/shower before you go to the dance. If you go to a dance after a hard day's work, stop on the way and clean up. You'll feel better, will smell better, and your partners will appreciate it. Please keep your hands clean (washing after eating or using the facilities). Keep in mind, too, that you're going to be dancing, which--for most of us--means perspiring. Keep a clean hand-towel in your dance bag, as well as any other toiletries that might help you stay pleasant to be near. I keep a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, mouthwash, breath mints, deodorant, a clean hand-towel, and a clean handkerchief in my bag. Plus, I keep one of those new spray-on deodorants in there, just in case the dancing is really hot. If you don't want to carry a bag, use the water and paper towels in the facilities.

Try not to spread germs. If you've got a cold, stay home until you're not contagious. We want you back quickly but would rather share a new step than your cold.

Deodorant: This is one of those sensitive topics but we're going to advise you to use deodorant--whether it's against your personal feelings or not. Remember, consideration for your partner(s) is the first rule of dance and this is simple consideration.

Cologne/Perfume: We recommend you use these sparingly. Some like them. Many do not. Smelling nice and clean is the best.

Clothing: First of all, it should be clean. I know, we keep harping on this cleanliness thing, but it's important. You don't have to be fancy. Many people like to dress very casually--jeans are fine. Some people like T-shirts and we're okay with that as long as they have sleeves (trust us, sleeveless T-shirts are gross when you start sweating). We're not going to deal with the topic of undergarments or anything beyond advising you to use common sense. Remember: dance people are polite people. Try to fit in. If you want to get repeat partners, try minimizing the things you can control: be clean, wear nice clothes, look like a dancer even if you're aren't one yet.

Eating: Brush, floss, use mouthwash. Avoid onions, garlic, and the like if you're going to be dancing. We like them, too, but our partners will like it a lot better if they can't tell what we had for lunch.

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Trust us. This will make you a better partner!