Frequently Asked Questions

Ballroom Dance Lessons FAQs

We realize you may have questions about getting started with ballroom dance lessons. For your convenience, on this page we’re offering answers to the questions we hear most often in the dance studio. Please feel free to browse these FAQs, and contact us if there’s anything further we can share that will help you feel comfortable, confident and prepared. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we know the hardest step is the first one you take when you walk through our door. And once you do, you’ll discover a warm, welcoming and 100% non-judgmental environment that will keep you coming back. Start dancing today!

Frequently Asked Questions - Fred Astaire Dance Studios San Diego, CA

Fred Astaire Dance Studios in San Diego offers professional dance instruction in a warm, welcoming environment. Below are answers to some of our most frequently asked questions to help you begin your dance journey with confidence.
Why Should I Choose Fred Astaire Dance Studios?

There are LOTS of reasons!
(1) NO other Dance Studio is better equipped to help you discover the lifelong joy of ballroom dancing!
(2) You’ll notice a warm energy and sense of “FADS Community” that is welcoming, 100% non-judgmental, and truly joyful from the first time you step inside our doors!
(3) Our proven, proprietary dance curriculum helps you master dance steps easily and confidently.
(4) Our unique teaching system includes private instruction, group Lessons and practice parties, to help you learn as much as possible in as short a time as possible – and enables you to try out your new skills in a casual group setting with your fellow dance students.
(5) Our Dance Instructors are friendly, highly-qualified and totally dedicated to making your experience enjoyable, educational and FUN!
(6) Fred Astaire Dance Studios also offers you benefits that many independent dance studios simply cannot – including an online Studio Dance Store (in-studio & online) with dozens of dance-related items to help you look and feel your best, on and off the dance floor; and exciting Regional, Inter-Regional and National Amateur and Pro-Am dance competitions that give Fred Astaire dance Students inspiring opportunities to compete, travel and hone their dancing skills in supportive and exciting environments. Don’t put it off another day… contact Fred Astaire Dance Studios, and you’ll discover that “Life’s Better When you Dance!”

How do I get started?

At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, all new dance Students can take advantage of our special money-saving Introductory Offer! Simply complete and submit the Intro Offer form on this website to get yours, and we’ll contact you right away to learn about your dance goals and help you set up your first Lesson. Once you discover how much fun ballroom dancing can be, we know you’ll be back for more!

What is the cost of lessons?

Every Fred Astaire Dance Studio offers a special Introductory Offer for new Students. Beyond that, our prices vary as dance lesson programs are designed to fit each student’s specific interests & goals – social dancing, wedding, competitive dancing, etc. At Fred Astaire Dance Studios, we will tailor programs to meet your individual goals and budget.

What types of dance do you teach?

We offer instruction for <i>all</i> partnership dances– from waltz, tango, cha-cha, and salsa, to country western, swing and club dancing. We can help you with your wedding dance, all of your social dance needs – basically, any dance done with a partner. For those with a competitive edge, we can also help you become a skilled Pro/Am competitor with your Instructor at lots of branded Fred Astaire Regional, Inter-Regional, National and International dance competitions!

How qualified are your dance instructors?

Every Fred Astaire Dance Studio Dance Instructor is a gifted dance educator with a passion for dance. Fred Astaire dance instructors hail from all over the world. Many have Fine Arts degrees, and are actively competing and award-winning professional dancers. And all have completed the rigorous work required to become, and remain, certified in the Fred Astaire Dance Curriculum – a proven teaching method that was developed by Fred Astaire himself, and is unique to our organization. Collectively, Fred Astaire Dance Instructors are dedicated to helping you discover the joy of ballroom dancing, and to making your learning experience enjoyable, educational, rewarding – and FUN!

Do I need a partner?

Absolutely not! We welcome singles <i>and</i> couples here at Fred Astaire Dance Studios. If you come in as one of our single Students, your Dance Instructor will be your partner for private lessons, and our group classes and practice sessions will provide plenty of opportunities to meet – and dance with – other dance Students with the same interests and goals!

How often should I take lessons?

We highly recommend that you schedule your Lessons close together, especially in the beginning. The less time between Lessons means the less you will forget, the less you will need to review, and the more quickly you will reach a confident level in your dancing. We also recommend private Lessons in conjunction with group classes and practice sessions, as it’s the most effective and efficient way for you to learn and stay motivated.

What types of dance classes does Fred Astaire Dance Studios offer in San Diego, CA?
We offer comprehensive dance instruction for all partnership dances including ballroom, Latin, and social styles. Our curriculum covers Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Mambo, Salsa, Swing, Country Western, and specialized wedding dance preparation. All programs are tailored to meet your specific goals, whether social dancing or competitive aspirations.
How qualified are the dance instructors at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in San Diego?
Our San Diego dance instructors are highly-qualified professionals, many with fine arts degrees and competitive dancing backgrounds. Each instructor is certified in the proprietary Fred Astaire Dance Curriculum—a proven teaching method developed by Fred Astaire himself. Our team is dedicated to creating an enjoyable, educational experience while helping you discover the joy of ballroom dancing.
Why is Fred Astaire considered the top Mambo Dance Studio in San Diego?
Fred Astaire Dance Studios is renowned for Mambo instruction in San Diego due to our expert understanding of this zestful Latin dance. Our instructors specialize in teaching the authentic rhythm and movements that made Mambo an instant sensation. We offer personalized instruction that helps students master both the technical aspects and expressive qualities of this popular Cuban dance.
What makes Fred Astaire the best Dance Studio in San Diego CA?
Our unique three-part teaching system combines private instruction, group lessons, and practice parties to accelerate learning and build confidence. We offer the largest variety of dance styles with programs customized to your goals, a proprietary curriculum for efficient progress, and a supportive community environment. Our studio features professional dance floors and decades of teaching excellence.
Do you offer couple dance classes in San Diego, and what do they include?
Yes! Our couple dance classes in San Diego are perfect for partners looking to learn together. These lessons help you reconnect through dancing while learning a skill you'll enjoy for years. Our certified instructors will have you dancing on your very first lesson, and our programs can be customized whether you want to just survive on the dance floor or truly stand out.
What is a private lesson?

Private Lessons consist of one Student or a couple working with one or two Dance Instructors. Private instruction is tailored to your personal needs. Learning at your own pace is the optimum method of comprehension and that’s what private instruction makes possible. One common misconception about private lessons is that they take place in seclusion. On the contrary, multiple private Lessons are often going on at the same time in our ballroom! We (and our Students) have found that learning in this environment gives everyone an advantage in real social dance settings. Private Lessons are by appointment only, and may be scheduled during the Dance Studio’s business hours by calling them directly.

What is a group class?

Our group classes are designed to be taken in addition to private Lessons, and consist of several students learning from one Dance Instructor. Group classes offer a wide variety of dances and topics to better your technique, physical fitness, and understanding of ballroom dance. All levels of Students have the opportunity to participate. Depending on your studio of choice, group classes are typically scheduled during the afternoon and in the evening throughout the week.

What is a practice session?

Our practice sessions take place in the studio and prepare you for dancing socially in the real world. At practice sessions, we dim the lights, supply the music, and have a fabulous time in a party-type atmosphere. Practice sessions allow you to apply material learned in your private lessons and group classes without the pressure of the public eye upon you. Students attend to have fun, learn… and dance! Students also have the opportunity to meet and dance with other Students, as well as other Instructors.

Will my lessons be at the same time every week?

Not necessarily. In order to accommodate your busy schedule, we attempt to be as flexible as possible but aren’t always able to schedule the exact same time every week. To reserve your preferred times, we suggest scheduling your Lessons a few weeks in advance, in order. Group class scheduling can vary depending on type and level of dance, so that everyone has an opportunity to attend. Practice sessions are typically scheduled for a set time each week.

How should I dress for my lesson?

We realize that some Students arrive for Lessons straight from work and others may be dressed more casually for their Lessons – either is fine. The most important thing is to wear something comfortable, which allows you to move easily. Of course, you’ll also want to select comfortable shoes. We suggest leather-sole shoes for gentlemen, and a shoe with a back for ladies (similar to what you might wear to go out dancing). Athletic shoes do NOT work well on the ballroom floor because they stick, which will make it difficult to move your feet.

Is it difficult to learn to dance?

No, it’s not! Our Dance Instructors are all highly-qualified and welcoming professionals, who participate in ongoing dance training throughout their careers. In addition, our progressive system of instruction and unique trophy system make it easy for you to learn. It will take a bit of time to master the various dances and a repertoire of steps, but a steady approach with periodic practice will produce visible results in less time than you’d think. We highly encourage you to keep your Lessons scheduled close together. You will progress more quickly, and it will make your experience more valuable to you. We promise: the learning is fun – and you will be on your way to confident social dancing after your very first dance Lesson!

How can Fred Astaire help with wedding dance lessons in San Diego?
Our wedding dance program helps couples create a memorable first dance tailored to your song choice, personal style, and dancing experience. We'll choreograph a dance that reflects your relationship while ensuring you feel confident and look natural. Our instructors work with your timeline, whether you have months or weeks before your wedding, to prepare you for this special moment.
What does your ballroom dance training in San Diego involve?
Our expert ballroom dance training combines three essential components: private lessons for personalized instruction, group classes to practice with different partners, and practice parties to apply your skills in a social setting. We follow a structured curriculum that breaks down complex movements into manageable steps while focusing on technique, style, and partnership dynamics.
How much do dance lessons cost at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in San Diego?
We offer a special Introductory Offer for new students to get started affordably. Beyond that, our pricing varies as we design programs to fit each student's specific goals and budget. Whether you're interested in social dancing, wedding preparation, or competitive training, we'll create a customized program that meets your needs and financial considerations.
What should I wear to my first dance lesson at Fred Astaire in San Diego?
For your first lesson, wear comfortable attire that allows free movement. For footwear, choose shoes with smooth or leather soles that stay securely on your feet—adjustable straps or lace-ups work perfectly. Avoid sneakers or rubber-soled shoes as they can stick to the floor. Ladies may bring a small heel for practice, but it's not required for beginners.
How do I get started with dance lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studios in San Diego?

Getting started is easy! Complete our Introductory Offer form on our website, and we'll contact you to discuss your dance goals. Your first visit includes a consultation to understand your interests followed by an introductory lesson with one of our professional instructors. This no-pressure introduction will help us create a personalized program that fits your objectives and schedule.