What is ballroom dancing?
Ballroom dancing is a form of partner dancing in which two people move in harmony with each other and with the music, usually on a crowded dance floor. The presence of other dancers provides a major challenge to the couple, and the best dancers are able to move spontaneously but synchronously through the actions of leading and following. There are many types of ballroom dances (see The Dances). These dances can be divided into two major classifications: Standard (smooth) and Latin (rhythm) dances.

What is Latin dancing?
Latin dancing is characterized by rhythmic movements and syncopated or percussive Latin beats. Latin dances are usually danced in place. The movements are compact and expressive. Latin dances are popular and fun party dances. Examples include salsa, cha cha cha and merengue.

What is social dancing?
Social dancing is a form of ballroom dancing, which occurs at social dance events such as dinner dances, fund-raisers, weddings, and holiday parties. The most popular social dances are swing, waltz, foxtrot, cha cha, cha, tango and rhumba.

What is a wedding “first dance”?
First dance refers to the first number that newlyweds dance together at their wedding reception. Engaged couples usually prefer romantic music and often choose a foxtrot, waltz or slow dance as their first dance.

What is DanceSport?
DanceSport is a competitive or exhibition style of dance and is the most physically demanding and mentally challenging form of ballroom dancing. As in any sport, the requirements of fitness, discipline and training are the keys to ultimate success, yet the learning process is fun, and the resultant skills can be used with confidence on any dance occasion.

What are the benefits of dancing?
Dancing is a great way to meet new friends, maintain fitness and develop body awareness. In addition, improved weight control, flexibility, heart health, and stress reduction are all benefits of ballroom dancing.

What kinds of dances can I learn?
Examples of popular smooth dances include the foxtrot, waltz, quickstep and tango. Salsa, swing, rhumba, merengue and cha cha cha are examples of rhythm dances.

Is a background in dance required?
No previous dance experience is necessary to be a successful ballroom dancer. Over time students develop skill and grace, improved posture and sharpened reflexes.

Where do people go to dance?
Weddings, parties, fund-raisers, black-tie events, corporate functions, night clubs, ballrooms, dance studio social parties, cruise lines and supper clubs all provide opportunities for you to practice your fancy footwork.

How do I choose a teacher?
Choose a teacher whose is friendly, patient, and who can communicate clearly. A good teacher should recognize your learning style. Some students learn best through their sense of touch, and a good teacher will be able to show you how a step should “feel”. Some learn best through visualization and physical examples. A good teacher will be able to paint a “word picture” which describes how a step should look. Also, look for a teacher who has enthusiasm for learning. For a teacher to teach well, he must continue to learn himself!

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