If there was a short-cut, wouldn't everyone take it?

Here are some tips:

* Finding a Russian-speaking buddy you could go out with shouldn't be too hard look. Look around for local ex-pats - at least Russian-speakers are everywhere. No need to actually go to Russia.

* Drink a small amount of alcohol when practising speaking - its called a social lubricant for a reason. Or do things you enjoy - find a buddy you could talk with about your hobbies in Russian.

* There is a false dichotomy between practical and formal learning - they complement each other. Unless you are 5, learning a language only from practising can form bad habits and learning only in a classroom means you cannot apply your knowledge.

Желаю Удачи!