We all know gyms will be crowded in January, packed with people determined to work off those holiday pounds. Others may be more focused on finding new friends, picking up a hobby, or spending more time with that special someone. Whatever your New Year’s resolution may be, chances are you can make it happen by taking classes at your local Fred Astaire Franchised Dance Studio. Ballroom dancing is a great, low-impact aerobic workout that burns calories and boosts cardiovascular health. It’s also a fun way to meet new people or bond with your loved ones. But if you’ve been taking dance lessons, you already know that! So, here are some New Year’s resolutions for our dancers who want to up the ante in 2018:

Discover a New Type of Dance

You can waltz at a wedding and jive the night away. But, do you want to master the mambo? Or take on the tango? Do it! Many participants first get started with an introductory course, or they want to prepare for a special event. But, there’s no reason to put away your dancing shoes after wedding season is over. Every Fred Astaire Dance Studios instructor is trained in all walks of dance, from partnership dances to club dancing. Sign up for a group class to learn some new steps and try them out at a practice session.

Pair With a New Partner (Or Get Closer to Yours)

Rotating partners is a good way to keep you on your toes, and it can boost your skills on the dance floor. So, don’t be shy! Switch it up at your next group class or practice session. And for our solo dancers, the group classes and practice sessions are also great places to make new friends and pair up with partners. Of course, there’s never an obligation to dance with different people. Swaying with your soul mate can only strengthen your bond.

Kick It Up a Notch

If you’re ready to add some extra spice to your dancing life, maybe it’s time to take your skills to another level. Show us what you’ve got, and have a lot of fun while you’re at it, by going to a competition. Our Fred Astaire National and Regional Competitions allow dancers to demonstrate their talent and provide a great opportunity to meet like-minded people. You can feel like a star at these glamorous competitions, all while honing your skills in a supportive environment. Our national championships also provide a great excuse to get away and explore new cities.

Practice Makes Perfect

Whatever your level, the only way to get better on the dance floor is to practice. Along with your private or group lessons, it’s important to go to practice sessions and dance parties. Our practice sessions take place in the studio and prepare students for dancing socially. They allow students to put their lessons to good use and test out their skills in the comfort of a supportive environment. Taking part in practice sessions is a great way to dance yourself to new capabilities in the new year.

Step into 2018 with confidence knowing that your dancing skills will only get better. Take advantage of everything your Fred Astaire Franchised Dance Studio has to offer, and you’ll be sure to accomplish your New Year’s dancing resolution.