Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing involves dancing with a partner both socially and competitively. There are two main categories of ballroom dancing. These are Standard and Latin.

Standard and Latin Ballroom Dancing

Both Standard and Latin ballroom dancing consists of 5 dances.

The Standard Category

These can be comprised of waltzes, tangos, along with the Viennese waltz and the slow foxtrot. Included in this is the Quickstep.

The Latin Category

All on the international level are the Samba, Cha Cha and Rumba. Then added to the list is the Paso Doble and Jive.

Ballroom Dancing Competitions

Some people travel the world participating in ballroom dancing. Some of the competitions may encompass 5 of the dances, whereas other competitions include all 10 dances.

The American School

The American School which is also referred to as The North American School is most prevalent in Canada and the United States. In Canada, the school is regulated by Canada Dancesport. There are also two other categories of ballroom dance referred to as Smooth and Rhythm.

The Smooth Category

The smooth category of ballroom dance includes only four dances. These dances in the American category are the waltz, tango, along with the foxtrot and Viennese waltz.

The Rhythm Category

The rhythm category of ballroom dancing in the American category includes the mambo, bolero and the East Coast swing. Along with the rumba and cha-cha.

Other Ballroom Dances

There are also many other ballroom dances that one can learn. Whether you are learning ballroom dancing for simple pleasure or for competition, some other ballroom dances are Peabody, Paso Doble, Polka, and Hussle.

Ballroom Dance Workshops

Sometimes when you are learning certain ballroom dances, you may need a little extra help with elements of the dance. Signing up for a workshop is a great way to practice and learn the required skills to achieve the success of a particular dance.

Competitive Ballroom Dance Attire

Traditionally, ballroom dance attire is on the formal side. Women wear beautiful flowing dresses, with a lot of detail. Many of the women’s dresses are accessorized with sequins and glitter. The men are dressed in suits or tuxedos. However, there may also be themed ballroom dance competitions like a masquerade, in which the participants would dress accordingly.