Jazz dance is undeniably one of the most fun styles of dance. From the high-energy swinging beats to the captivating movements, there’s a lot to love when it comes to jazz. That’s why even non-dancers can’t help but tap their foot along when a catchy jazz tune comes on. Whether you recently discovered a love for jazz or it’s been a lifelong affair, portable jazz dance floors will help you hone your skills and perfect your dance moves when you’re away from the studio. Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about portable jazz dance floors.
What Is a Portable Jazz Dance Floor?
A portable jazz dance floor is similar to a professional jazz studio floor, just smaller. It’s made from the same type of wood but can be set up and broken back down in a matter of minutes.
Although there are a few different types of portable dance floors, sprung floors are ideal for jazz dance. Additionally, a good portable jazz dance floor has a decent amount of grip while still allowing you to glide across the surface.
How Much Do Portable Jazz Dance Floors Cost?
You can expect to spend anywhere between $400 and $3,000 when looking for a portable jazz dance floor at home. The exact price depends on how big the dance floor is and what it’s made from. For example, a 4′ x 6′ sprung maple floor will cost more than a 3′ x 3′ plastic dance floor.
The price might be a deciding factor, but as a rule of thumb, you should never go with the least expensive option you can find. We know it can be tempting, but these cheap dance floors use flimsy wood and foam that wear down quickly.
Even if you’re trying to save a few bucks, it’s better to get a slightly smaller, high-quality dance floor rather than a mediocre dance floor that you’ll have to replace in a few months or even years. The highest quality dance floors will perform for a decade or more.
Benefits of Mobile Jazz Dance Floors
Despite a somewhat steep initial investment, portable jazz dance floors have several benefits that make them a worthwhile purchase. Three such benefits are explained below.
Lets You Practice and Perform Anywhere
Mobile jazz dance floors are versatile and can be set up practically anywhere. They don’t require a specific type of subflooring or any special adhesives to install.
All you have to do to install a portable jazz dance floor is open it up and place it on a flat surface. This setup means it’s easy to pack up and take with you on the go so you can get some extra practice in, no matter where you’re at.
With a portable jazz dance floor, you can dance in your backyard just as easily as you can on a competition stage. If you’re a professional performer, this translates into more work opportunities and more money in your pocket.
Prevents Injury and Fatigue
Sprung portable dance floors are hands-down the best thing to practice jazz dance on because they’re the safest.
Foot, ankle, knee, and hip injuries are already common in dancing, but when you dance on an unprotected surface, you’re at an even greater risk of injury. If you practice at home on a regular floor, whether it’s on hardwood, carpet, concrete, linoleum, or tile, there is nothing below you to protect your bones and joints.
The high-density foam blocks on sprung dance floors absorb the majority of the shock from intense dance moves, minimizing the effects felt by your body. This absorption, in turn, lowers your risk of injury and allows you to dance for a longer amount of time.
Saves Space
With portable dance floors, you don’t have to dedicate an entire room, or even half a room, to be a permanent dance area. You can take out the dance floor when you need it and then stow it away in a closet or under your bed when you’re all done. This approach is especially great for renters and people with limited space.
Is Wood or Vinyl Better for Portable Jazz Dance Floors?
Some people swear by vinyl flooring due to its slip-resistant nature and the fact that it’s easy to go back and forth between jazz shoes and dancing barefoot. But for such an intense dance style like jazz, you really need something more sturdy. That’s why we recommend a high-quality sprung wooden floor.
Additionally, vinyl doesn’t provide the same kind of cushioning as sprung wooden floors, so you feel the full impact of every leap, stomp, and landing.
Luckily, there are portable floors that combine the two, so you get the best of both worlds. You get the added support and protection of a sprung floor while still having the smooth yet grippy surface of the vinyl floor.
Who Should Buy a Portable Jazz Dance Floor?
Portable dance floors are great for jazz dancers of every skill level. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, portable dance floors allow you to get in more practice time outside of the dance studio in a safe way..
Portable dance floors are also great for people who travel a lot; just make sure you get a travel bag to transport it.
How to Maintain Portable Jazz Dance Floors
Portable dance floors are really easy to maintain. Most models will come with specific instructions on how to clean the dance floor and what cleaner should be used. It’s usually as simple as wiping it down after each session with warm water and a simple cleaner.
This work prevents dirt and debris from building up, and although it may seem inconsequential, it shouldn’t be overlooked. Properly cleaning, storing, and maintaining your portable dance floor will prolong its lifetime by several years.
If you’re ready to find the right portable jazz dance floor for you, look no further than O’Mara Sprung Floors. Visit our online store today to shop our wide selection of portable dance floors and accessories for every style of dance.
