There are many types of partner dancing that are extremely fun to do. Many girls tend to take up hip-hop, ballet, tap, or jazz if they are interested in dancing, but if you are looking for a dance you can do with a partner, your eyes will be open to a whole new world of dance! If you are looking to try out some different types of partner dancing, here are a few genres of dance to look into!
1. Swing
One of my favorite types of partner dancing is Swing Dance. Swing Dance is a social dance that encompasses several different types of dances, including East Coast Swing, West Coast Swing, Lindy Hop, Blues, '20s Charleston, '40s Charleston, Shag, and Balboa. Most of these dances are athletic and fast, but Blues is more of a slow, sensual dance, and all are quite fun once you get the hang of them!
2. Salsa
Salsa is also a social dance and is very easy to learn. If you are looking to pick up a fun partner dance with a Latin feel, I suggest trying Salsa. Many Salsa clubs teach regular lessons, and some throw in Merengue and Bachata lessons as well!
3. International Standard
International Standard is a competition-style dance that you will see at any ballroom dance competition. This encompasses many types of dancing, including Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep. International Standard lessons are more focused on those looking to compete in ballroom, so if this is the route you are looking to take, try enrolling in International Ballroom classes!
4. International Latin
International Latin is also a competition-style dance that is seen at traditional ballroom competitions. It is usually taught in conjunction with International Standard dances. The dances in this category include Jive, Rumba, Cha Cha, Paso Doble, and Samba, in particular.
5. American Smooth
American Standard dances are very similar to International Standard dances, but they tend to have a more relaxed feel and slight variations in the base steps. The main dances in this category are Waltz, Foxtrot, and Tango. If you want to learn ballroom for social contexts as opposed to having a competition focus, American Ballroom may be the dance for you!
6. American Rhythm
American Latin is also similar to International Latin, but may or may not be included in competitions. Typical American Latin dances include Swing (which is similar to International Jive), Cha Cha, Bolero, Mambo, and Rumba. Again, if you are looking for a more social feel to ballroom, this is the way to go!
7. Argentine Tango
Argentine Tango is one of the most sensual of all partner dances. Argentine Tango hardly resembles either International or American Tango. A saying goes that American Tango resembles the beginning of a relationship when you are having fun, Argentine Tango resembles the next stage of your relationship where you and your partner can't keep your hands off each other, and International Tango resembles your relationship after you've been married for 20 years and can't stand each other. (Other than modeling stages of a relationship, these Tangos don't have a ton in common.) So if you are looking to take up a partner dance with your sweetheart, I recommend checking out an Argentine Tango class!
I love dancing, and have had so much fun learning all of these types of dances! What other partner dances have you tried out?
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are some popular types of partner dancing?
- Some popular partner dances include the Waltz, Tango, Salsa, Foxtrot, Swing, Cha-Cha, and Rumba. Each dance has its own unique style and rhythm.
- How do I get started with partner dancing?
- To get started with partner dancing, you can join a dance class, find a local dance community, or book lessons with a professional dance instructor. It's also helpful to start with one style to learn the basics.
- Do I need a partner to learn partner dancing?
- While having a partner can make learning to dance more enjoyable, it's not necessary. Many dance classes offer opportunities to pair up with different people, and some even rotate partners, so everyone gets a chance to dance.
- Is partner dancing a good form of exercise?
- Yes, partner dancing can be a great workout. It helps improve cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, enhances flexibility, and can also be a fun way to burn calories and stay active.
- Can I participate in partner dancing at any age?
- Absolutely, partner dancing is for people of all ages. It's a wonderful way to stay social, active, and to learn a new skill. There are many types of dances and dance communities that welcome dancers from beginners to seasoned professionals.