Dancing is meant to be fun. Much more than simply moving to the music, it is a time to exercise good manners and elegance while respectfully interacting with others. As with any other formal activity, there is a certain protocol to follow. Considering the following points will help every trip to the dance floor turn into a great memory for you and others.

Brush up on basic steps: Ahead of a scheduled dance, spend time reviewing proper steps to dance songs or particular styles of music that will likely be played. If you are not sure about what these are, try asking others who have attended prior Church dances for common song titles.

If you do not know how to dance, you have some additional homework. Begin by reading the October 2008 Ambassador Youth article “Learning to Dance.” Then ask for help from another Church member who is a skilled dancer or find reputable how-to videos at the library or online—and start practicing. Remember: you do not need to become an expert—you need only know basic steps.

Dress for success: Church dances are traditionally formal events, so plan to dress appropriately. Your parents and minister can help you with any questions. Be considerate and pay special attention to grooming (shower, deodorant, breath, etc.) as dancing involves close proximity with others.

Jewelry should be worn in moderation, as it can get caught in clothes and cause cuts or scratches. In addition, do not go shoeless. This may mean bringing a separate pair of flats for the dance floor—being stepped on has a way of ruining the most memorable dances.

Ask gracefully: Young men, dancing first and foremost requires that you ask a lady to dance. It should not be the other way around. The classic line, “Shall we dance?” is easy to remember. But you can also use: “Care to dance?” or “Would you like to dance?” and so on. Whichever line you use, relax and be polite.

In a group situation, make eye contact with your intended dance partner so she knows you mean her. A shy approach may result in awkward—and usually funny, but unnecessary—interchanges. (Ladies, remember to smile and be considerate of a young man’s efforts.)

If a person is talking to someone else, use judgment as to whether you should interrupt. Politely approaching and interrupting for a dance request can be appropriate if you perceive the conversation is not sensitive.

It is proper dance etiquette that young men should make every effort to avoid too many dances with the same partner—as a general rule, you should not dance twice in a row with the same person. Ladies, however, should try to honor all dance requests.

With this in mind, it is okay to decline a dance request due to need of a break, or because of having committed the next dance to someone else. In such cases, you will want to let the person know, and possibly offer a future dance.

After you decline someone for a break, do not accept anyone else’s request at least for that song’s duration. In addition, if you do not know how to dance to a particular song, you may also simply say: “I would like to…but I don’t know this dance.”

Dance floor etiquette: Young men, after a request is granted, hold your partner by the hand and carefully walk her to the dance floor. Be aware of those around you and give space to other couples on the floor.

After dancing, partners should thank one another. The dance is not over until a gentleman graciously walks a young lady back to her seat. If dancing was particularly enjoyed, mention it! But do not stay chatting for too long to ensure that both of you have the opportunity to dance with others. While you may book another dance later, it is best to give space and check again with each other after a reasonable amount of time.

Be conscious to skip one or a few dances if necessary in the case of a lack of partners, so that everyone has a chance to dance.

If you are a skilled dancer, stay away from “showing off” by doing dangerous or complicated steps, or drawing attention to yourself with solo freestyle dancing. Regardless of how much of a “skilled dancer” you may be, never ridicule someone else’s ability. Instead, learn to dance along with the other person in a patient and respectful manner. This will be encouraging to your partner and perhaps spark interest in him or her to become a better dancer. If asked, however, feel free to provide a few dance tips.

Dance for success: Dancing is a wonderful opportunity to make others feel great. Keeping these basic guidelines in mind will help you enjoy the next dance to the fullest!