How To Start Dance At Any Age

By Saskia Longley on 9th Jan 2026

If you’ve been considering starting adult beginner dance classes but are too nervous then why not make 2026 the year you start dancing. . If you are saying to yourself ‘am I too old to start dancing?’ well the answer is no, you are certainly not! Dance is for everyone of all ages and abilities and is a great form of exercise. This is a great starting point to help you find the perfect beginner dance classes for you.

Am I Too Old to Start Ballet or Dance?

Absolutely not and here’s why…

Dance isn’t reserved for people who began at three years old and never stopped. Many adults begin training later in life, joining adult beginner dance classes designed specifically for people with zero experience. Ballet, in particular, is incredible for posture, strength, mobility and mental focus. Plus it doesn’t require childhood training to enjoy or benefit from it.

Ballroom dance is very popular for adult beginner dance classes, especially with the older generation as the steps are slow and controlled. Adult beginner ballroom classes are perfect as a social hobby to make new friends and get some movement into your day.

Whether you're 18, 28, 48, or 68, you can start dancing and take your first dance class. Your goals don’t have to be performing onstage; they can be fitness, confidence or simply having fun.

How to Start Dance: A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide

Choose a style that you are interested in

For complete dance newcomers, the easiest place to start is choosing a style that sparks your interest.

Popular options for dance for beginners include:

Look for adult beginner dance classes

Adult classes are structured differently from children’s classes. Adult beginner dance classes often have a slower pace and are more technique focused whilst still being beginner friendly. Many studios offer adult beginner dance classes, they are great judgement free classes where you can go to learn the basics.

Try a taster adult beginner dance class

Many studios have drop in or trial sessions so you don’t have to commit to the adult beginner dance classes if you find it's not for you.

Treat yourself to a new dance look

Don’t be scared as a non dancer to try dancewear for your first beginner dance class. Leotards often come in a wide variety of styles and sizes to suit all types of bodies. The leotards from our Elevated Essentials range come in sizes XS -XXL and have built in-bra shelf to give you extra support.

Don’t compare yourself to anyone

Every dancer in that room had a first day. You’re not behind you’re just starting. Take that first step, have fun and make some new dance friends.

What to Expect in Beginner Dance Classes

If you’re nervous and not sure what adult beginner dance classes entail, here's what a typical beginner dance class looks like:

Usually starts with a warm up to prepare your body.
After this you will start with learning the basic movement vocabulary, e.g plies, isolations etc.
Then you will learn some short combinations to music
Finished with a stretch and a cool down.

Where to Find Beginner Dance Classes in Manchester

Manchester has an incredible range of studios offering classes for adults. Search for studios that clearly label classes as dance for beginners or adult beginner dance classes so you know they’re tailored to newcomers. Studios like KNT Danceworks and Northern Ballet in central Manchester offer great adult beginner dance classes.

If you're asking how to start dancing, the answer is simple: choose a class, show up and give yourself the chance to learn something new.. You’re never too old. You’re never too inexperienced. And you’re definitely not too late. Starting adult beginner dance classes is the perfect way to start the new year.

Happy dancing!

The Move Dance Team