Social Dance Types: A Guide for Beginners — Ballroom Dance Planet
Whether you are an avid fan or a casual viewer, watching professional dancers create magic onstage is always a memorable experience. It almost makes you want to try out professional ballroom dancing yourself, doesn’t it?
But with so many social dance types out there, which one should you choose? Let’s walk you through the different types of ballroom dances and then you can decide which one you’re interested in:
Rumba
Rumba is a sassy and sensual dance form that originated in the West Indies but really developed in Cuba. The most important thing in this social dance type is that you must develop a connection with your partner.
It is the slowest Latin dance form. Like all Latin dances, Rumba involves a lot of hip movement. It also has steps like shoulder checks and cross-body leads. If you would like to learn slow, sensual dancing, then Rumba is a great choice for you.
Cha Cha Cha
The Cha Cha Cha is another popular dance type that originated in Cuba just like the Rumba, developed in Cuba post World War II. It is an energetic, lively, and flirtatious type of dance that is loved by professional and non-professional dancers alike.
There is a lot of hip movement in this dance type. It is based on three quick steps that are followed by 2 slow beats. Besides hip movement, the Cha Cha Cha also involves a lot of quick spins, sharp actions, staccato, and some intricate foot movement.
If you are into groovy and playful social dancing, then you can consider learning this dance type.
Salsa
Salsa is possibly one of the most famous social dance types in the world. Its origins can be sourced to Africa and the Caribbean.
There are 4 major variations of this dance style. These are the Cuban Style, the LA style, the NY style, and the Columbian style.
Salsa is mainly characterized by its fast foot footwork and its turning variations. It is a fun, flirty, sensual dance type that is fun to learn.
Originally published at https://ballroomdanceplanet.com on July 7, 2019.
