What Is Ballroom Dancing

What is Ballroom Dancing?

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Until more recent times, for many people, ballroom dancing probably
conjured up images of elderly couples dancing in their twilight years.
However, in recent years, ballroom dancing has developed a new, hipper,
sexier image and people of all ages are standing up and paying attention.

Movies such as Strictly Ballroom and Shall We Dance, not to mention the
very popular Dancing With the Stars TV series, have contributed greatly to
the newer kinder image that ballroom dancing is developing in Australia,
the UK and the United States. As an art form, ballroom dance is a beautiful
sight to behold. Particularly when watching those participate on a
competitive level.
Because of the rigorous training that is involved in competitive ballroom

dancing, many couples that participate often consider this to be a sport
more than a style of dance or manner of artistic expression. There has
even been some discussion about whether it can be included in the
Olympic Games. The term DanceSport is often used in connection with
competitive ballroom dancing in the International Standard and New
Vogues Styles.
What is Ballroom Dancing and Why is it Becoming

Popular?
There are many styles of dance that fall under the banner of ballroom
dancing. Some of these dances are often considered to be the most
beautiful to watch as well as among the most sensual styles of dance on
the planet. Only you can decide for yourself if ballroom dance is something
that might interest you. I do, however, encourage you to take stock of the
various styles and themes before unilaterally deciding to rule out all
ballroom dance as a possible interest.
International Style
Under the International Style of ballroom dance there are two main
categories of dance. They are Standard and Latin. The Standard style is
typically hallmarked by dress that is very formal with men in coats with
flowing tails and vests while the women wear very elegant gowns as part of
their costumes. Latin dance is far more sensual in music, mood, and attire.
Men wear tight fitting garments and women wear very little.
Standard
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Not only is the style of dance between Standard and Latin very different
but also the styles of dance. In Standard ballroom dancing you will find the
following dances: the Quickstep, the Slow Foxtrot, the Tango, the Viennese
Waltz, and the Waltz. The Tango for many is the highlight of the Standard
event while others have a deep appreciation for the technical qualities of
the many Standard dances of ballroom dancing.
Latin
For the younger generation, the Latin portion of competitions is the
eagerly anticipated event. The style of dance is very exotic and emotional
as well as incredibly beautiful to watch. The mood this style of dance brings
not only to the dancers but also to the audience is almost palpable. The fan
favorites of Latin dance include the Cha Cha, Paso Doble, the Rumba, the
Samba, and Jive dance. This form of dance is certainly in keeping with the
idea that dance is quickly becoming a sport. The energy required for these
dances is phenomenal as is the fitness level required in order to wear the
costumes.
American Style
The American standard when it comes to dance is a little different than the
International Style. The two categories for American Style are Smooth and
Rhythm. There are other differences as well. In International Style the
couples are required to remain in a closed formation. For American Style
ballroom dance these requirements are somewhat relaxed in order to
allow for creative use of footwork. The step patterns for Latin or Rhythm
dance are also slightly different than in the International Style of ballroom
dancing though the sensuality of the music, costumes, and movements are
very much the same.
Smooth
The smooth portion of the American Style of ballroom dance includes the
Foxtrot, the Tango, the Viennese Waltz, and the Waltz.
Rhythm
In American Style Ballroom dance the Rhythm portion of the dance
includes the following: the Bolero, the Cha Cha, East Coast Swing, the
Mambo, and the Rumba. The audience still enjoys the intensity of Latin
dance and Latin influence though there are other influences as well. These
are still a much anticipated audience favorite in most competitions.
As you can see, ballroom dance has taken on a new intensity in recent
years. If you have preconceived ideas of what ballroom dance really is, it is
time you saw for yourself how sensual this style of dance can really be.
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What Is Ballroom Dancing

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What is Ballroom Dancing?

Because of the rigorous training that is involved in competitive ballroom

What is Ballroom Dancing and Why is it Becoming

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