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!
***
Swing Dance is a great way to get fit while having fun. It's a great way to meet people, as it's a social dance that is often done in couples. It's also a great way to learn how to lead and follow, as it requires both partners to be in sync. Swing Dance is also a great way to learn musicality, as it requires the dancers to be in tune with the music. It also helps to improve coordination, as it involves a lot of turns and quick footwork. Swing Dance is a great way to get fit and have fun, while also learning valuable skills.
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!
***
Originating from the Caribbean, Salsa is characterized by its energetic and sensual moves. It's a fantastic way to not only learn rhythmic patterns and footwork but also to embrace the connection with your dance partner. If you're looking for a vibrant social scene, Salsa nights offer a warm and welcoming environment, perfect for both beginners and seasoned dancers. Don't worry about bringing a partner—many Salsa enthusiasts are happy to pair up and guide newcomers through their first steps. Dance away the evening and let the lively Latin music fill you with joy and confidence.
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.
***
Whether you're aiming to dazzle on the competitive floor or simply add a little spice to your social dance repertoire, the fiery movements and passionate rhythms of International Latin dances are sure to captivate. Unleash your inner rhythm with the Cha Cha's playful flirtations or the Samba's pulsating beats that echo the heart of Brazilian carnivals. Glide across the floor with the sensuous Rumba, express dramatic tales through the Paso Doble, or get your heart pumping with the lively Jive. Perfect for those who love expressive dances that combine precision with high-energy performance.
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!
***
If you're attracted to the lively beats and sensual rhythms, American Rhythm is certainly one that will get your heart pumping. Unlike International styles which are highly regimented, the American Rhythm category has a more relaxed and social approach, often making it a favorite at parties and casual dance venues. The moves are flirtatious and full of energy, with a focus on smooth hip movements and playful patterns. It's also not uncommon to see a blend of other dance influences, as it embodies the melting pot of American culture. Whether you're stepping into a steamy Rumba or spinning through a vivacious Swing, you'll find that each dance has its own unique flavor.
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?
