Health, Safety & Etiquette
Ceroc is JOYFUL! It is a chance for friends to gather, socialise, keep themselves fit, learn an exciting new skill and interact with people who share their passion.
It is our responsibility as organisers, as much as it is our members' responsibility, to ensure that our events are inclusive, welcoming, safe and enjoyable for all.
The physical, mental and emotional wellbeing of all our members is absolutely paramount. Please always consider and demonstrate our following codes of best practice to ensure you and your fellow dancers have noting but the greatest experience with Ceroc.
On the dance floor
Ceroc teaches moves from a multitude of different partner dance forms, and we would respectfully ask members only to dance movements and variations that they have learnt safely at a Ceroc event.
- Do not teach, irrespective of your dance credentials! Leave it to the pros please!
- Aerials and airsteps (where the feet leave the ground) are not permitted in social freestyle.
- Always be aware of the space around you. Do you have enough room to step back? Can you help your partner avoid any collisions?
- Avoid long travelling steps on a busy dance floor, and if you do perform them, make sure you are not walking into someone’s path.
- Execute dips and drops with care, paying special consideration to the space around you. Do not execute dips and drops that you have never been taught before. ALWAYS seek permission from your partner if they are happy to execute dips and drops before trying them.
- Do not try and dance movements that you have seen, but not yet been taught. Our teachers are trained to highlight potential hazards that you may not be aware of unless you have learned the move in a lesson.
- When you enter the floor, do not step into the path of anyone dancing.
- When your dance is finished, retreat to the side of the room being careful not to step on someone’s path.
- Never assume your partner’s ability level. Start with some easy movements until you know how to pitch the dance. Beginners can be intimidated by someone who dances complex moves, and your role is to make your partner feel comfortable.
Off the dance floor
- Do not walk across the floor with drinks, and keep them a safe distance away from the dance space, with their lids on.
- Report any spillages immediately to an event organiser so they can be mopped up.
- Do not place drinks on or near speakers or electronic equipment, but use the tables provided.
- Keep your bags tucked away under the chairs, and ensure no coats are blocking the pathways.
- Do not stand directly in front of or behind the fans. Not only is there a possible risk of clothing getting caught, but you will also significantly reduce the fan's ability to cool the room.
- Do not stand on the stage near the DJ or speakers. Whilst diligent care is taken, there will be wires that could create a tripping hazard.
Clothing
- Always wear layers. Dancing is an aerobic sport, and you will warm up as the night progresses.
- Avoid footwear with too much grip. Trainers and rubber soles can make the dance seem more demanding. Leather/suede soles are best, allowing your feet to move without resistance.
- Beginners, avoid high heels until you are confident with your balance. If you wish progress to high heels, build your way up slowly to ensure you are in control of your weight transfer.
- Jewellery is discouraged, especially items that could catch another dancer. Long necklaces or sharp rings are a big hazard, so please avoid at all costs.
Hydration & Nutrition
- Keep hydrated throughout the class and practice freestyle. Water will always be provided at our venues.
- Some venues have a licensed bar, however the consumption of alcohol at our venues is rare. Over 18s, if you do choose to have a drink, please do so in moderation. Any excessive alcohol consumption will result in membership suspension, especially if is poses a risk to other dancers in the venue.
- Please avoid eating smelly foods before turning up to a dance night, and bring with you chewing gum or mouthwash to ensure you are hygienic for your partners. Do not chew gum whilst you are dancing however, as this poses a choking hazard.
Hygiene
- Please bring a change of top, particularly in the Summer months, as you will get sweaty.
- Shower, brush your teeth and wear clean clothes to ensure you are presentable. Dance is a contact sport, and your partner will thank you for your attention to detail when it comes to hygiene.
- Wear deodorant, and bring some extra in your bag.
- Wash your hands frequently throughout the evening, and consider bringing antibacterial hand gel.
An important part of our Ceroc marketing is photography and videography. It enables us to show new dancers exactly what it is like to experience one of our events. We also have many members who like to take photos and videos of their Ceroc friends on their phone.
We do not wish to police, but rather encourage, photography and videography in our venues. As such, we would like all Ceroc attendees to be aware that there may be such media at the venues you attend.
If you wish to take your own photos and videos:
- Please initially ask permission from the event organiser. They may know of someone present who does not wish to be recorded.
- Please be mindful of only capturing people that you know, or those from whom you have sought permission.
- If in doubt, always ask individuals. A polite enquiry will often be met with enthusiasm and gratitude!
- Share your pictures! The organiser and individuals will almost certainly love to see your work.
Ceroc reserve the right to use photos and videos taken at Ceroc events for marketing and advertisement purposes. If you do not wish to appear in such media, you must inform your local operator in writing before attending a specific event.
We have years of experience providing dance events for thousands of people. We have learned many things during our 45 years, all of which have contributed towards making our Ceroc events safe, inclusive and supportive for all.
That said, we recognise that there are always more things that we can learn to enhance and develop our practices. If you have any suggestions that would make you, or someone you know, feel more welcome and comfortable at one of our events, we would love to share the discussion at tim@ceroc.com.
Many thanks for your continued support and sensitivity.