• Always warm-up before you begin dancing.
• If any step hurts you or you feel is pressuring your muscle in an uncomfortable way, do not do it.
• If you are learning the dance to lose weight or even to lose weight after childbirth, make sure you check with your doctor and gynaecologist too.
• Relax your knees so that you can move easily.
• In case you are recovering from an operation or an accident, do check with your doctor before you enroll yourself for a class.
• Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to move. Some wear tights with tees or even loose Indian skirts.
• Carry a scarf with you. Your teacher will tie this around your hip as part of the outfit. You will also be able to figure out if your hip movements are okay.

In this photograph: Hip-hop singer Nelly Furtado

Photograph: Getty Images / Jim Ross