Frequently Asked Questions

Is registration required in order to take classes?
How do I know which level of class to take?
How much do classes cost?
Do I need a partner?
What age should you be to take the classes?
What should I wear?
What is dancing Salsa "On 2"?
Where are you located?

Is registration required in order to take classes?

Yes, we need you to register for any one of our classes. This helps us to maintain are male/female ratio as close to 50-50 as we can get it. We do accept drop-ins however please note that it’s based on space availability.

How do I know which level of class to take?

If you are unsure, you are welcome to observe classes (at no charge) prior to taking them. If it is your first time at the studio, we recommend taking a level that is lower for the following reasons; you may be unfamiliar with our teaching style, classes may be harder than what you are accustomed to and you might want to acclimate yourself to new surroundings. If you haven't danced in many years, you'll want to reintroduce your body and muscles slowly. Remember, if you've chosen a class that is not best for you, we will happily switch you to another class.

How much do classes cost?

The cost of group classes for a 7 week course is $95 (GST included), if you register as a couple the cost is $170 per couple (GST included). * Please note that the definition of a couple is gender independant, however it must consist of one leader and one follower. Packages of multiple group courses or private lessons can also be purchased at discounted rates. Please see our Pricing & Packages section.

Do I need a partner?

You do not need a partner and we get just as many singles as couples registered. Before the course commences we take registrations for the purpose of trying to match the ratio of ladies-to-gentleman.

What age should you be to take the classes?

Our classes are for teens and adults only and at present we don’t offer kids programs. The sessions run from September through June. If you are unavailable for this program, our Summer Workshops are an easy introduction to Latin dance in one day.

What should I wear?

Dancewear

There is no dress code, so dress comfortably. Jeans or dressy pants and T-shirts for men. For ladies skirts, dresses or stretchy pants are perfect.

Comfortable Shoes

Shoes are important because your feet will feel the impact of the workout, and the last thing you need are pinching shoes. They should have a leather or suede bottom, which is how most proper ballroom & latin dancing shoes are constructed. Rubber soled shoes are not ideal for dancing due to too much traction. Ladies often wear high-heeled sandals from one-and-a-half to three inches. Ideally, women shoes should have a soft sole and fit securely so that you won’t have to worry about them falling off.

Be careful of the very high heels. If you can’t walk properly in them, then you probably will have trouble dancing in them, too. It is better to start out with a smaller heel and work your way up.

Where can you get good dance shoes?

Click here to visit DSOL's online store or contact Alex at: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or call (403) 510-8300 for more info.

What is dancing Salsa "On 2"?

The music we dance to is counted in 2 four beat measures(4/4 time) and we dance in a pattern of six steps danced over eight counts of the music. A "break step" is the step that you change the direction of your momentum. When your break step falls on the second and sixth beat of the music, then you are dancing "On 2". We use the wording "On 2" when describing the NY style of salsa, and teach that style exclusively.

Where are you located?

Studio Address:

YWCA Fitness on 5th
320 - 5th Ave. SE Calgary, AB.

• YWCA's parking lot can be accessed from either 5th Ave. (east-bound one way) or 4th Ave. (west-bound one way).
• Additional parking is available at meters around the area (free after 6pm) or in the public lot directly across the street (north side of 4th Ave) for $2 after 6pm.