Ballroom and Latin dances are popular styles of partner dancing, each with its unique rhythm, technique, and character.
Ballroom Dances:
These are often more formal, elegant, and smooth. Popular styles include:
- Waltz – A graceful dance in 3/4 time, known for its flowing movements.
- Tango – A passionate and sharp dance characterized by staccato steps and dramatic body positions.
- Foxtrot – A smooth, progressive dance with long, flowing movements.
- Quickstep – An upbeat, fast-paced dance with light, hopping steps.
- Viennese Waltz – A faster version of the traditional waltz with continuous turns.
Latin Dances:
These are more rhythmically driven and expressive, often with faster movements.
- Samba – A lively Brazilian dance with bouncy, rhythmic steps.
- Cha-Cha – A cheeky, vibrant dance with quick footwork.
- Rumba – A slow, sensual dance with fluid hip movements.
- Paso Doble – A dramatic dance that mimics the movements of a Spanish bullfight.
- Jive – A fast, energetic dance with quick kicks and flicks, similar to swing.
Both ballroom and Latin dances are known for their technical precision and strong connection between partners, with ballroom dances generally focusing on elegance and control, and Latin dances emphasising rhythm and expression.