Dance Sport – Different types of Dances

When we talk about dancing, images of tuxedos and elegant dress gowns come to mind, with partners swaying gracefully to the music. Many consider dance as a form of art, which is true. But what is unknown, is that dance is also considered as a sport - a sport so elegant and beautiful that competitions are formed around it.

Dancing as a competition is divided in two basic categories: The Latin-American dance form and the Standard dance form. Each category has been divided in five sub-groups. Let’s explore these categories to understand dancing as a sport competition.

Latin-American Dance

Latin-American dancing is said to have evolved from African dances. It is because of this reason that they have a fast-tempo with lively and fun music.

In international competitions, Latin American dancing is judged in five categories:

1. The Samba

Considered as one of the most difficult dances, the Samba is a fast and lively dance with complicated dance steps. The body is in a constant motion up or down, with knees and joints bowed and outstretched to resemble the rhythm of the music.

2. The Cha-cha-cha

This type of dance comes from the music and dancing roots of the Rumba. This dance is considered less serious and a more ‘natural’ form of dancing, where dancing partners are in a playful mood.

3. The Rumba

Originating from Cuban roots, this dance originated in dark night clubs. The dance is characterized as passionate and erotic, with loyalty and rejection as the theme of most Rumba dances. This dance is about the attraction, independence and seduction between two partners.

4. The Jive

The Jive is livelier than all the other dances, with characteristics of aerobics and roll.

5. The Paso Doble

This is a two-step Spanish dance where the women, acting as a red mantle for the matador, dance around the invisible bull. The music is very vibrant which is represented by the steps of the partners.

Standard dances

Standard dances are considered the most old-fashioned dancing forms, which are much more challenging than their contemporary dancing forms.

1. English Waltz

It is a gracious and peaceful dance, that is known as the king of dances. The slow sways and sentimental music make this the most harmonious dance.

2. Viennese Waltz

One of the oldest and fast tempo dances is the Viennese Waltz. It is different from the English Waltz in terms of the rotating turns that the partners take.

3. Tango

It is an Argentinean dance that has been reformed by the English to have flexible, tough and firm dance steps. It represents the adversities of men and women.

4. Foxtrot

Foxtrot is considered as a classy and ‘one of kind’ dance. The dance is characterized by fast turns and a pronounced poise, which is considered difficult.

5. Quickstep

Quickstep is a lively dance with fast paced and fluid steps, which almost resemble running.

These are the most famous dances that are considered as sporting events for many professionals. Different titles and medals are also won in such competitions. Dancing as a sport competition is becoming very famous because of the craze left behind by reality television dancing shows. Try your luck in one of these sporting competitions.

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