Let’s face it – not everyone walks into a class like Groovelates thinking “Yes! This is my moment to shine!”
For some clients, the idea of moving to music in a room full of people brings more dread than disco fever. And as instructors, we feel that hesitance the moment they hover by the door with that “What have I done?” look.
So, how can we help clients go from self-conscious to superstar – even if they’re convinced they have two left feet?
Whether you're teaching Groovelates or any rhythm-based fusion class, here's how to break down the mental (and physical) barriers and build confident movers from day one.
🚧 First, let’s talk about the barriers…
Most instructors will have heard at least one of these:
- “I’m too uncoordinated.”
- “I have no rhythm.”
- “I can’t follow routines.”
- “I’ll look silly.”
- “Everyone else will be better than me.”
These aren’t just throwaway comments – they’re rooted in real feelings of vulnerability.
Research shows that self-perception and fear of social judgement are key reasons adults opt out of group exercise, particularly dance-based formats (Ekkekakis et al., 2011).
Dance fitness classes can trigger performance anxiety, especially in women over 40, who may be returning to movement after years of inactivity.
As instructors, our job is to flip the script – and make our classes feel less like a stage and more like a party.
🎯 Strategy #1: Your Words Matter
Let’s ditch perfection and embrace progress. The language you use to introduce the class, coach movements, and offer feedback can make or break your client’s experience.
Try this:
✅ “It’s not about getting it right – it’s about feeling good in your body.”
✅ “There’s no wrong here – just your version of the groove!”
✅ “If you’re moving, you’re doing it right.”
Avoid overcorrecting form too early – especially in a first class. The goal is to build trust and fun before technique.
💡 Pro tip: Use inclusive, affirming cues. A 2020 study in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that autonomy-supportive coaching (giving clients freedom and encouragement rather than control or correction) significantly increased confidence and enjoyment in movement-based classes.
🪩 Strategy #2: Set the Scene for Success
Let’s talk class structure. If your goal is confidence-building, your format should follow a predictable arc that feels safe and repeatable.(This is why Groovelates is pre-planned for you too)
Format for confidence:
- Warm-up = win early. Keep it simple, rhythm-based, and success-oriented. Think single-step touches, shoulder rolls, or hip sways – nothing too fast, nothing too fancy. Add your vibe with simple arm patterns such as arm rolls.
- Repetition rules. Build combos gradually and repeat patterns often. Reinforcement builds competence – and competence builds confidence. This is why we recommend that you deliver Groovelates releases for a minimum of 12 weeks as your class members will be able to achieve more as they learn the routines.
- Chunk it. Break combos into small sections. Celebrate mini wins (“Nailed the arms? Yes! Let’s add the feet!”). Don't try and do it all at once!
- Circle back. Revisit early patterns later in the class for that satisfying “Ah-ha!” moment. Again, this is why Groovelates is planned and we have "Signature Moves" to help embed movement patterns.
- Freedom to freestyle. Allow a few seconds for free movement, expression, or improvisation – this works well in things like our "Lasso Turns" or if you simply forget your choreography!
🎶 Strategy #3: Let the Music Do the Work
One of Groovelates’ biggest assets is the music – it’s joyful, familiar, and energy-lifting. Use it to your advantage!
This will help you with:
- Clear, consistent beats
- Simple structure (verse-chorus-verse)
- Feel-good lyrics and tempo (ideally 110–125 BPM for beginners)
Clients don’t need to “count” the beat – they just need to feel it.
The music supports memory, rhythm, and emotion.
According to a 2017 study in Frontiers in Psychology, music enhances motor learning and emotional connection, especially in adults who associate certain songs with positive life moments. So yes – playing “Strut your Funky Stuff” can literally improve their learning curve!!
🌟 Strategy #4: Celebrate Every Victory
Confidence grows when people feel seen and supported. Celebrate the small wins – the smile after a hip circle, the moment someone starts mouthing the lyrics, the shy client who finally joins the front row.
Create a culture of fun above perfection. You don’t need everyone in sync – you need everyone in the moment.
Try:
- End-of-class shoutouts (“That shoulder shimmy was a 10/10!”)
- Optional team moments or pairings (great for small groups)
- Monthly themed classes where personality is the dress code. You've all seen Release 07, right!!!
💥 Final Thoughts: It’s About Joy, Not Judgement
Helping clients feel confident in a dance-fusion class doesn’t require flash choreography or being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about creating an atmosphere where joy is the goal and movement is celebrated – no matter how it looks.
As an instructor, you hold the power to reframe how people see themselves in their bodies. And that, my friend, is the real magic of Groovelates.
Want more tools like this?
💌 Don’t forget to grab this month’s Free Handout: “Top 5 Tips to Build Confidence Through Movement” – perfect to print or share with your class!
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