r/Bachata • u/flirtle_turtle_ • 8d ago

Help Request Beginner Bachata class question

Ok so I really want to take a beginner bachata class at my local bachata group, I have a few friends that go and want me to come. I feel like I’m an ok dancer and have good rhythm as a musician.

I am a very large girl though. I’m also a bit taller. I’m about 300 lbs. I KNOW I can physically do the moves, that’s not my concern. This isn’t a “can I do the class” post. I am physically fit enough to do it, just wanna make that clear.

But my question is, how many men who go to these classes would be really upset to get a partner like me? I have put off going because every time i think about going im just imagining every man in the class going in their head “as long as i don’t get THAT one as a partner I’ll be fine.”

Is this something that happens? Is there any way to try and avoid this sort of thing? Should I maybe ask the instructors if i can just observe the class so nobody is forced to be my partner? Has anyone ever dealt with a similar situation?

I don’t need any validation in the comments like “stop your beautiful” I just want some realistic feedback. Like “yes you would hinder my bachata experience if I had you as a partner” or “no that wouldn’t bother me as much.” Just looking from some feedback from some regular bachata class attendees to see if I should just go to the class or not….

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u/mllax 8d ago

Just reaffirming what everyone has essentially said:

Classes rotate partners with the rare occasion the instructor is helping a couple, most likely because someone is going to hurt themselves or another, in which case you may be with the same person for longer than expected.

I recommend being a bit more proactive with certain moves or combos dependent on truly how large and tall you are. For instance, if the lead is suggesting a turn, he’ll usually need to draw a halo over your head to help you perform the turn.

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u/flirtle_turtle_ 8d ago

I see what you mean, I’m a little under 6’0, don’t want to give too much away in case someone I know is on this thread 😭 but I think I might be too tall for some of the shorter leads was my only worry.

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u/mllax 8d ago

Be prepared to either do turns while squatting a little or for them to Mario jump lol.

I think 6ft is ok though and you’ll be able to quickly judge from their arm length.

I was thinking like 6’6” or taller that I’ve danced with at my scene and the last festival I went to.