I’ve been dancing since I was 4 or 5 years old. I’ve done ballet, tap, pointe, jazz, and late night kitchen dance party. Not to brag or anything, but I’ve always looked pretty amazing as a dancer.
Looking like a tiny pink boss with my sister.
Dancing has always held a special place in my heart, but with other commitments and stronger interests, I haven’t enrolled in any classes as an adult. But when a friend invited me to a drop-in, all levels dance class to learn the choreography to Robyn’s “Call Your Girlfriend,” I literally jumped with excitement. Within ten minutes I had purchased my ticket and called/peer pressured my girlfriend into taking the class with me.
I’ve found that Robyn fans are usually superfans. I can’t say I’m a superfan, but I do really like her music and think she’s pretty badass. I keep a few of her songs on my running playlists because they pump you up and make you feel strong as hell.
I was giddy during the morning and afternoon of dance class day, telling everyone who would listen (and probably some people who didn’t listen) that I was taking a dance class that night. My pal and I showed up to the event space and I was pleasantly surprised to see 3 other girlfriends there too. So many girlfriends!
The instructor was Nicky of Beyography. He and his assistant Katherine were fantastic teachers. As we warmed up, everyone was giggling. There were definitely some women there who were obviously trained dancers, but for the most part, the class was full of dance dabblers. There were initially some feelings of being self-conscious, but it seemed to melt away within a few minutes. Nicky was fun, clear, and patient as we learned and rehearsed the moves. During practice and when the music would pause, the class kept singing the song. We were grinning and sweating buckets.
Towards the end of the 2-hour class, I realized I was a bit sore and tired because I had been doing each repetition all out. This is funny to me, because it’s very… me. I have an on switch and an off switch. I am black and white, with zero shades of gray. Also, I was really really into it. I felt present and happy.
Here’s a clip of us dancing. The full version is posted on the Beyography Facebook page. I love that shoulder shuffle!
Leaving the class and for the next hour, I had an endorphin rush that I usually only get with running. I’m still tickled 4 days later.
I’m already eagerly refreshing the Beyography class schedule and looking forward to future drop-ins. It’s a really good reminder that exercise and moving your body are so much more fun when you’re doing something you enjoy!
Sweaty and Hungry 