Written by: Katrien Pienaar
Across Pretoria, dance is no longer just for professionals or those who started young. It’s become an accessible space for expression, community, and doing something for yourself again. From ballet to hip-hop, there’s a style for everyone, and the best part? You don’t have to be “good” to begin.
Starting Again (Even If It’s Been Years)
A lot of us did some form of dance growing up. Ballet classes, maybe a bit of modern, maybe nothing at all, but somewhere along the way, life got busy and it fell away.
Across Pretoria, we’ve noted how many studios are now creating space for adults to come back or even start for the very first time, and there has never been a better time to join one.
Ballet: Where It All Began
Maybe ballet was your first love. Or maybe it’s something you’ve always wanted to try.
At Liezel Marais Dance Academy in Garsfontein, ballet is truly for everyone. Since 1997, they’ve created a space where dancers from as young as 3, right through to adults, can feel welcome, including beginners and even 55+ classes with a gentler approach. Some of the benefits you’ll gain include improved posture, balance, and reconnecting with your body again, all while meeting a few lovely people along the way.
Website: www.liezelmaraisdanceacademy.co.za
Facebook: Liezel Marais Dance Academy
Hip-Hop, Contemporary & K-Pop: High Energy
Pretoria’s urban dance scene is where things loosen up. Studios like Jamfox in Waterkloof Glen offer a mix of hip-hop, jazz, and contemporary, and even K-pop adult classes, which honestly just feel like pure fun. There’s a strong focus on building confidence, connection, and creating a space where everyone feels like they belong.
Website: www.jamfox.co.za
Facebook: Jamfox Dance Studio
Aerial & Strength-Based Movement
Then there are spaces that take dance slightly beyond what we traditionally think of it as.
At Body & Mind Fitness in Waterkloof Glen, movement becomes something powerful, and they invite everyone, regardless of age, body shape, or fitness level, to join in. From aerial yoga and aerial hoop to pole dancing and flow-based classes, it’s all about building strength while still having fun. Many women walk in thinking they won’t be able to do it and leave surprised at what their bodies are capable of.
Website: www.bodymindfitness.co.za
Facebook: Body & Mind Fitness
Belly Dance: Confidence & Feminine Energy
Belly dancing is often considered one of the world’s oldest dance forms, and it’s a beautiful way to move your body while building strength and confidence. At Ioanna’s Dance Academy in Glenwood, you can try this expressive, low-impact style. They offer both open beginner classes and structured levels, so you can start with no experience and grow at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll start to notice small shifts too: improved posture, a stronger core, and a deeper sense of confidence in your body.
Website: www.bellyacademy.co.za
Facebook: Ionnas Dance & Entertainment
Why not try out hip-hop or contemporary?
Love of Dance Academy (LODA) at Wolwespruit is known for its welcoming, modern approach and strong sense of community. The focus is on creating a space where people of all ages can express themselves freely, without judgment. The studio offers a wide range of dance classes, from hip-hop (including SABOD syllabus training) to contemporary, adult ballet, and even Latin styles. It’s all about discovering what you enjoy and growing from there.
Website: www.loda.dance
Facebook: Love of Dance Academy
Ballroom & Latin American Dancing: Structured, Social & Fun
For something a little more traditional, ballroom and Latin dance remain a timeless option.
Beverley Hammond Dance School offers Latin American and ballroom classes in Garsfontein as well as Doringkloof in Centurion, for both beginners and more experienced dancers. Whether you go with a partner or on your own, it’s a great way to build confidence and connection. With instructors who have a background in the professional dance world, including being part of shows like Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With The Stars, these classes are ideal if you’re looking for something structured, social, or even preparing for a wedding or special event.
Website: www.beverleyhammond.co.za
Facebook: Beverley Hammond Dance School
Dance for Moms & Little Ones
Edge Dance Space offers a lovely moms-and-tots style class called Creative Kids, where movement becomes a shared experience. It’s a gentle introduction to dance for little ones, while giving moms a moment to move and connect with them too.
Website: www.edgedancespace.co.za
Facebook: Edge Dance Space
Just Start
If you’ve been thinking about trying a class, consider this your sign. You don’t need the outfit. You don’t need rhythm. You don’t need to know what you’re doing. You just need to walk in.
Most studios offer a free trial class, so why not sign up for a few and see where you feel most at home? Sometimes all it takes is that first class to find your rhythm again.