We love to hear from you, but if you've got a specific query it may be covered below; here are some of our frequently asked questions
What sort of dancing do you do?
The routines used in our dance fitness classes are freestyle - a fresh fusion of pop, disco, club and street with a bit of Bollywood, Burlesque, Latin or jazz thrown into the mix - it all depends on what song we're dancing to. You don't need any dance experience, and we never do any moves that are too complicated or hard to follow. We use plenty of repetition so you have loads of time to practise the steps and the routines are fun, energetic and upbeat.
What kind of music do you use?
We use upbeat and energising chart music - mostly pop, dance, and r'n'b - anything from the nineties to current chart hits. Occasionally we'll do a cheesy dance musicals themed night which is very popular - the warm up music, main routine, and cool down will be from Glee, Grease, Fame, Dirty Dancing or Flashdance - legwarmers optional! We've also had Burlesque (where everyone got to play with black and pink boas!!) and Bollywood themed sessions!
When are your classes?
Pop Dance is on EVERY Tuesday night from 7-8pm. We usually run every single week apart from a break for Christmas and the occasional week off for leave!
Do you run classes during the school holidays?
Aside from the odd week off for leave and a month over Christmas, classes are every week - regardless of term times and school holidays. Very occasionally we have to cancel the odd class because of snow so if there is very bad weather it's always best to check the Weekly Update tab on the website!
Where are you based?
We run Pop Dance Fitness classes from Bournside Sports Centre (click for photos of where to go, and a link to a map).
Can I just turn up or do I need to book in advance?
Absolutely no need to book or register your interest in advance - our space at Bournside Sports Centre is big enough to fit everyone in!
How much are the classes?
£4 per session - just pay as you go either before the class or afterwards.
Does it matter that I am a complete beginner with no dance experience at all?
You don't need any experience at all - every move we do is broken down from scratch and we don't go too fast either so don't worry about being left behind or struggling to keep up! Most of the class are beginners who are looking for a fun and easy way to keep fit and tone up!
What is the age range of your class?
We have a really wide age range - it's from teens to 50+! We've had whole families of daughters, mums, friends, aunties and neighbours who all turn up to enjoy the dance class together!
What should I wear?
Wear something comfortable that you can move in - no jeans or skirts! Everyone in the class wears jogging bottoms, combats, leggings, yoga pants, or shorts. If you have dance sneakers feel free to wear them but a good pair of trainers is absolutely fine if you don't.
What do I need to bring with me?
Just yourself, some water to stay hydrated, and £4 to pay for the class - that's it! Of course, you can also bring your mates / mum / colleagues / Great Aunt Maud / boyfriend or you can just come by yourself - there are plenty of people who do the same!
I'm really out of shape and haven't done any exercise for years - will I feel self-conscious?
Our classes are for absolutely everyone, regardless of age, weight, shape or size! And we have a real mix of people in the class - from students to housewives - but there are definately no 18-year olds pirouetting around in leotards!
Are the classes for women only?
At the moment 90% of people who attend are female - but absolutely EVERYONE is welcome!
What's the minimum / maximum age limit?
16 is our minimum age limit. There is no upper age limit at all although if you have problems with your back, neck or knees you may not be able to follow the entire warm up and dance routines exactly. If this applies to you, consult your doctor before starting any new fitness programme (I know it's boring but it's important!). As a general rule, your general level of fitness and mobility needs to be fairly good to get the most out of the class. If you think you'll struggle to keep up, don't worry - give me a call and chat about your concerns, or let me know you'll be popping along just to have a look!
I don't have a babysitter - can I bring my children with me?
Unfortunately neither our insurance, or Bournside's Sports Centre's insurance covers the protection of children. The venue has requested that no children are left unattended on the premises during the session.