Haven’t been here in a while. I intend on returning one day soon. I learned a lot. Totally comfortable atmosphere since the moment I walked in the door. I like the fact that I can join any class at any time. Everyone can attend and enjoy the events.Fila Mena Less

I’ve been dancing for over 10 years now, but it didn’t start easily. Growing up, I was the shy kid in the corner — a Latino who couldn’t dance.About five years ago, I met Patty Zak, owner and lead instructor at Long Island Latin Movement, and everything about how I approached dance evolved.At the time, she was teaching Salsa On2 and Bachata, while I only knew On1. Her classes were a bit advanced for me, but I loved them — and the community she built around them. The students were warm, welcoming, and genuinely supportive.That’s when I decided to take private lessons with Patty — and I never looked back. It was through her that I fell in love with Salsa On2. Her classes are now the highlight of my week.Every Tuesday at JLR Studios in Bay Shore, she teaches three levels of salsa: beginner, advanced beginner, and intermediate. The camaraderie among the students is truly special. Everyone supports each other. No judgment. No drama. We often celebrate birthdays and other special occasions with a dance circle — it’s that kind of vibe.Her group classes follow a three-week cycle. The first class starts with a salsa shine — a solo footwork sequence that helps with rhythm, timing, and body awareness — followed by partner work that builds from week to week. This progression makes it easier to remember and actually use the moves when social dancing.What makes Patty stand out is that she’s constantly learning herself. She takes classes with top instructors, applies what she learns, and shares those insights with her students.She focuses not just on choreography but on body mechanics: how to turn, pivot, transfer weight, and move with purpose. The result is a deeper understanding of dance — not just the steps, but the movement itself.Patty also hosts some of the best socials on Long Island at JLR Studios in Bay Shore, one of the nicest dance spaces in the area.The vibe is always fun and inclusive, with dancers at every level — from beginners to seasoned pros.At a recent social, I saw a number of completely new dancers. It was a pleasure to see the immense joy on their faces as they successfully executed the steps she had just taught them. That’s what makes Patty special — she creates an environment where anyone can thrive.In addition to Salsa, she offers Bachata classes through other skilled instructors; leads performance teams (ladies’ and couples); and is even hosting her first student couple showcase.She also choreographs wedding dances — first dances, father-daughter, and mother-son — with the same attention to detail and heart.Patty is not just a phenomenal teacher — she’s an exceptional businesswoman and community builder. I’m proud to be part of what she’s created.Highly recommend. Less

Long Island Dance Movement is an excellent place for anyone interested in learning to dance salsa and bachata, regardless of skill level and experience. This is achieved by offering classes designed for beginners with no prior dance experience as well as more advanced classes for competitive dancers and everything in between. Anyone can find the right class to be challenged yet engaged. Personally, I take two classes back to back; the first to nail the basics and the next to challenge myself.The instructors are highly skilled - it is obvious they have devoted their lives to mastering their craft. More importantly, though, the instruction is phenomenal. They know how to break it down and have you learn through repetition. You’ll be amazed how quickly you will progress and will have fun doing it.Finally, the community is warm and welcoming. No one is judgmental and people are happy to help. It’s good to see new faces and see this wonderful movement continue to grow.If you’re looking to pick up a fun and healthy hobby, you won’t regret giving LILM a try. Less

Long Island Latin Movement has changed my life. After a personal tragedy, I was seaking an outlet to heal. I came upon LILM two and a half years ago, and the rest has been history. This has been the most amazing therapy for me. I take classes and private lessons weekly. Patty Zak is my instructor and I have learned so much from her. She is patient, adapts lessons to my individual strengths and style, and she is just a wonderful person as well. I have tried many dance schools and I have found that LILM is the most accepting and non-judgmental school around for me! Less

I have been taking salsa and bachata lessons at LILM for about two years. The instructors are highly skilled, professional, and make everyone feel welcome and supported. I have seen a huge improvement in my technique by adding private instruction with Patty in addition to the group classes. I would highly recommend LILM! Less

Such a great studio! The space is huge, with plenty of room to move, and the head instructor Patty, is fantastic. She takes the time to explain technique in a relatable way, and breaks things down making it all easy to follow.The weekly classes are open with zero pressure to commit to a monthly fee- the pay as you go model is ideal. They also host dance socials which is a super fun way to practice what you e learned.10/10 highly recommend to anyone wanting to start learning from scratch- or a seasoned dancer looking to brush up on some new moves! It’s the highlight of my week! Less

I’ve taken both Salsa and Bachata classes with Patty and Ayse, and I can’t recommend them enough! Both women are amazing instructors who truly care about their students’ progress. They break down every step of the footwork in a way that makes it easy to follow, even if you’re completely new to the dance floor.What I love most is their patience, attention to detail, and how they create such a fun, welcoming atmosphere in every class. They take the time to explain not just the steps but also the rhythm, body movement, and partner connection — which makes a huge difference in how you feel when you dance.Whether you're a beginner or looking to polish your skills, these classes are a perfect way to build confidence, meet great people, and enjoy the beauty of Latin dance. I always leave class feeling energized and excited for the next one! Less