If you've never been to a dancesport competition, it can be a bit daunting. You may find yourself in a large ballroom packed with people, judges, dancers, loud music, and flamboyant costumes. If you approach it with enthusiasm and a positive attitude, though, you'll find that ballroom competition can be a truly rewarding and memorable experience. The important thing is to have a bit of a sense of what to expect before you arrive, so that you come prepared mentally as well as physically.

It's recommended to do makeup and hair preparation at home; it's one less thing to worry about at the venue itself. You'll be in an unfamiliar space, after all, so the less you worry about finding a place with the right space and lighting, the better. Ideally, you can do just the final cosmetic prep and costuming when you've arrived.

When you get to the space (be it a hotel ballroom, a gymnasium, or a studio), take in your surroundings and get settled. Know what time you're scheduled to compete, and check for any potential updates in the event schedule. Things often change last minute, so it's always best to double check.

Take a moment to get comfortable, relax, and feel that you're "in your body." Run though your routines-in your head, on your own, and with your partner. That way, when it's actually time to step out on the floor, you'll be warmed up both mentally and physically.

Listen for announcements, and be prepared to enter the "on deck area" (wherever dancers enter the floor from). Be sure the leader in your couple has his competitor number pinned to his back. Once your event is announced, you'll walk out on the dance floor, grab the spot you want (own it!) and be prepared to dance as soon as the music begins.

Depending on the size and type of competition, you may be competing with dancers in other levels and sections. If only one or two couples happens to be registered in a given event, the competition organizers may decide to have them dance at the same time as someone in another level. Judges know to consider you and them independently, so don't worry-it's simply a way to save time and space.

Enjoy the experience! Now is not the time to agonize over technique-it's time to perform. So show the judges and the audience how much fun you're having, because chances are that will resonate more with them than if your feet are pointed properly.

Once you've finished, you'll line up and listen for the results of your section to be announced (this may happen after a few events have been danced). Judges will give out ribbons and awards. Good luck!