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Buying Dancing Shoes: A Practical Guide

Choosing the right dancing shoes is essential for any dancer, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional. The right shoes not only provide comfort and support but also enhance your performance on the dance floor. In this practical guide, we will explore the factors to consider when buying dancing shoes, and different types of shoes for various dance styles, and provide helpful tips for trying and testing shoes.

Understanding Different Dance Styles and Their Footwear Needs

Different dance styles have unique footwear requirements. For example, ballet dancers need shoes that allow for flexibility and emphasize the shape of the foot. Ballroom and Latin dancers require shoes that provide support and stability during intricate footwork. It’s important to understand the specific needs of your chosen dance style and select shoes that cater to those requirements.

Factors to Consider When Buying Dancing Shoes

Comfort should be your top priority when buying dancing shoes. Proper fit and sizing are crucial to prevent discomfort and potential injuries. Look for shoes made from high-quality materials with adequate cushioning for foot support. Remember, dancing can be demanding on the feet, so investing in shoes that prioritize comfort is essential.

Durability and quality are equally important. Consider the construction and materials of the shoes to ensure they can withstand the rigors of dancing. While quality shoes may be more expensive upfront, they often last longer, making them more cost-effective in the long run.

The suitability of the shoes for different dance floors should also be considered. Different types of dance floors, such as hardwood, Marley, or concrete, require different levels of grip and traction. Ensure that the shoes you choose have the appropriate soles to optimize your performance and prevent accidents.

Style and aesthetics play a role as well. While functionality should be the primary focus, it’s also important to select shoes that align with your personal taste and dance attire. Look for shoes that complement your style and make you feel confident and comfortable on the dance floor.

Types of Dancing Shoes

There are various types of dancing shoes designed specifically for different dance styles.

Ballet shoes come in split-sole and full-sole options. They should fit snugly, providing flexibility and highlighting the shape of the foot. Consider the materials, toe shape, and aesthetics when choosing ballet shoes.

Ballroom and Latin dance shoes differ for men and women. They typically have heels for women and are designed to provide support and stability during spins and quick footwork. Consider the heel height, straps, and materials when selecting these shoes.

Jazz shoes are available in jazz sneakers and jazz oxfords. They should be flexible and comfortable to allow for quick movements. Look for shoes made from materials that provide the right balance of support and flexibility.

Tap shoes have different types of taps that produce varying sound qualities. Look for shoes with sturdy construction, good ankle support, and comfortable materials for prolonged tap dancing sessions.

Hip-hop and street dance shoes can be sneakers or specialized dance shoes. They should have sufficient cushioning for shock absorption and ankle support for jumps and fast movements.

Tips for Trying and Testing Dancing Shoes

When buying dancing shoes, it’s best to visit dance specialty stores and try them on. This allows you to assess the fit, comfort, and feel of the shoes. Seek advice from experienced dancers or instructors who can provide valuable insights. Test the shoes on appropriate dance floors to ensure they meet your needs.

Conclusion

Buying the right dancing shoes is an important investment in your dance journey. Consider factors like comfort, durability, dance floor suitability, and style when making your choice. Understanding the specific needs of your dance style and trying on different types of shoes will help you find the perfect fit. Remember to maintain and care for your dancing shoes to ensure their longevity. Investing in quality shoes will not only enhance your performance but also make your dancing experiences more enjoyable. So go ahead, get the perfect pair of dancing shoes, and hit the dance floor with confidence!

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Hip Hop Dancing History Lesson

Hip hop dancing is a vibrant and dynamic urban dance form that has captivated audiences around the world. Hip hop dancing has deep roots that can be traced back to the bustling streets of the Bronx, New York City, in the 1970s. To truly grasp the evolution and profound impact of hip hop dance on popular culture, it is crucial to delve into its rich history and cultural significance. In this article, we embark on a captivating journey, exploring the origins, key figures, diverse styles, and far-reaching influence of hip hop dance.

Origin of Hip Hop Dancing 

Hip hop dancing draws its origins from the vibrant tapestry of African and Caribbean dance traditions. These influences brought rhythmic movements, expressive footwork, and the art of storytelling through dance. Amidst the socioeconomic challenges faced by the South Bronx community in the 1970s, a creative response emerged in the form of street dance styles. These dance forms provided an outlet for self-expression and a sense of belonging for the youth in the neighborhood.

Evolution and Key Figures

Pioneers and key figures played a crucial role in shaping hip hop dancing into what it is today. The Rock Steady Crew, a b-boy (breakdancing) group, introduced groundbreaking moves and established the foundation for breakdancing. Their innovative footwork, power moves, and acrobatics revolutionized the dance style. Similarly, the Electric Boogaloos, led by Popin’ Pete, brought popping and locking to the forefront of hip hop dance. Their precise isolations, robotic movements, and rhythmic popping techniques became iconic elements of the genre. Michael Jackson, known as the King of Pop, popularized smooth and intricate dance choreography, incorporating popping, locking, and b-boying elements into his performances.

Hip hop Styles and Techniques

Hip hop dance encompasses various styles and techniques that have evolved over time. Breaking, also known as b-boying, is characterized by its athletic and acrobatic moves, such as power moves (spins and flips) and intricate footwork. Popping and locking, on the other hand, focus on isolations, robotic movements, and rhythmic contractions of the muscles. Poppers create the illusion of hitting or popping specific body parts to the beat, while lockers execute distinct pauses or “locks” in their movements. Krumping, a high-energy and expressive style, emerged in the early 2000s and gained popularity for its raw intensity and emotional release.

Hip Hop Dance in Popular Culture

Hip hop dance found its way into popular culture through music videos, movies, and television. Artists like Michael Jackson, MC Hammer, and Missy Elliott showcased their impressive dance skills, bringing hip hop dancing to the mainstream audience. Dance competition shows, like “America’s Best Dance Crew” and “So You Think You Can Dance,” played a pivotal role in catapulting the genre into the limelight. These platforms provided talented dancers with the opportunity to showcase their skills, igniting inspiration among a new generation of hip hop dancers.

The influence of hip hop dance has spread beyond the United States, becoming a global phenomenon. In different parts of the world, dancers have incorporated hip hop elements into their own cultural dance styles, creating unique fusions. Hip hop dance has also influenced fashion trends, language, and popular culture, becoming an integral part of the urban lifestyle.

Conclusion

So, hip hop dancing is a powerful and influential art form with its roots in the streets of the Bronx. By exploring its origins, key figures, styles, and impact on popular culture, we gain a deeper appreciation for the rich history and evolution of hip hop dance. It serves as a form of self-expression, empowerment, and storytelling, captivating audiences with its energetic movements and infectious rhythms. As we continue to embrace and celebrate hip hop dancing, let us recognize and honor the pioneers and dancers who have contributed to its vibrant legacy.

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How To Breakdance

Emerging in the early 1970s, breakdancing has consistently enthralled spectators with its lively and dynamic dance performances. Fusing acrobatics and athleticism to the rhythm of hip-hop beats, this ever-evolving dance form pushes boundaries with innovative moves while maintaining its essence. Immerse yourself in the thrilling universe of breakdancing with this all-inclusive guide, providing a meticulous, step-by-step tutorial designed to spark your venture into this lively and spirited dance genre.

Physical Preparation

Before delving into the fundamental steps of breakdancing, it’s essential to acknowledge that this particular dance form demands a significant degree of physical prowess and suppleness. It’s crucial to warm up and stretch properly before attempting any moves to avoid injury. A few elementary workouts to get ready encompass jogging, performing jumping jacks, executing lunges, and engaging in squats. These will help warm your heart rate and your muscles.

Next, you’ll want to stretch your muscles thoroughly. Incorporating stretches can aid in averting injuries and enhancing your scope of movement. Some particularly useful stretches for breakdancing include leg stretches like hamstring and quad stretches, hip stretches like the butterfly stretch, and shoulder stretches like the cross-arm stretch.

Strengthening exercises can also help improve your breakdancing skills. Engaging in push-ups, sit-ups, and planks proves to be highly beneficial in developing core fortitude, which is crucial for executing numerous breakdancing maneuvers.

Basic Moves

The foundation of breakdancing consists of four basic moves: toprock, downrock, freezes, and power moves.

  1. Toprock is the first move you’ll typically perform in a breakdancing routine. It involves dancing on your feet while moving your upper body to the beat. This move is all about style and rhythm. A few examples of toprock moves include the salsa step, Indian step, and kick step.
  2. Downrock is the second move you’ll want to learn. It involves moving your body down to the floor and performing various footwork and handwork movements. Downrock is all about showcasing your style and creativity. Examples of downrock moves include the six-step, the four-step, and the CC.
  3. Freezes are static poses that you hold during a breakdancing routine. They are typically used to punctuate a move and add emphasis. Examples of freezes include the baby freeze, the air freeze, and the headstand freeze.
  4. Power moves are the most acrobatic and physically demanding moves in breakdancing. They require a lot of strength and technique to execute properly. Examples of power moves include the windmill, the flare, and the headspin.

Technique and Style

Once you’ve learned the basic moves, focusing on technique and style is essential. Timing and rhythm are crucial to executing breakdancing moves properly. You’ll need to have a good sense of timing to know when to execute each move about the beat of the music. Maintaining rhythm is equally vital, enabling you to transition smoothly and effortlessly between various movements.

Developing your style is another key aspect of breakdancing. While the basic moves are essential, adding your flair to them is equally important. Try experimenting with different footwork, arm movements, and freezes to develop your unique style.

Training and Practice

Like any dance style, consistent practice is essential for improving your breakdancing skills. Set aside weekly practice time and focus on mastering one move at a time. Additionally, monitoring your achievements and establishing objectives can be instrumental in keeping you inspired.

Collaborating with a fellow trainee or a team can prove advantageous, as it fosters the sharing of concepts and mutual learning. Watching and learning from more experienced breakdancers is helpful, in-person or online.

Performing

As your confidence in your breakdancing abilities grows, consider performing for spectators. Demonstrating your talents in front of an audience can effectively exhibit your prowess and enhance your experience.

When performing, it’s important to stay relaxed and confident. Try not to let any mistakes or slips throw you off your game. Rather than letting mistakes or slips throw you off your game, consider using them as a chance to improvise and incorporate your personal style into the performance.

Dealing with stage fright can also be a challenge for some breakdancers. One way to combat stage fright is to practice visualizing a successful performance before you take the stage. Imagine yourself executing each move flawlessly and getting a positive reaction from the audience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, breakdancing is a fun and challenging dance style requiring much physical strength and technique. Following the steps outlined in this article, you can start your breakdancing journey and begin mastering the basic moves. Remember to focus on technique and style, practice consistently, and stay relaxed and confident when performing. You can become a skilled breakdancer with dedication and hard work and add your unique flavor to this dynamic dance style.

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Tips for Dancing at Your Wedding

The day of your wedding is a highly significant occasion, and the initial dance shared by newlyweds is a crucial element of the festivities. Dancing provides a means not just to commemorate your love, but also a chance to enjoy, unwind, and loosen up with your loved ones and acquaintances. Nonetheless, for those who lack the inherent dancing ability or experience anxiety about the exhibition, it can seem like a formidable undertaking. This article will furnish couples seeking to maximize their wedding dance experience with helpful pointers, including selecting an appropriate song and engaging the guests in the dance.

Choose the Right Song

The first step to a successful wedding dance is choosing the right song. The song you choose should reflect your personality and your relationship, and make you feel comfortable and confident. Contemplate a song that possesses personal significance to you and your significant other, whether it evokes a cherished memory or it’s a song that both of you relish. You can also involve your wedding party and guests in the song selection process by creating a poll or asking for suggestions. Nonetheless, exercise caution regarding the tone and lyrics of the song, as certain tunes may not be suitable for a wedding dance.

Practice Makes Perfect

Even if you are not a professional dancer, practice can make all the difference in a successful wedding dance. Set aside regular practice time, whether it is a weekly dance lesson or a daily practice session at home. Wearing wedding shoes while rehearsing can assist you in acclimatizing to the sensation of the footwear and avoid any accidents while dancing. Keep in mind that the objective is not to execute every step flawlessly but to feel at ease and self-assured in your dance sequence.

Consider Dance Lessons

If you feel like you need more guidance and support, consider taking dance lessons before the wedding. Taking dance lessons can aid in acquiring fundamental dance moves, refining posture and stability, and instilling the courage to perform in front of an audience. Various dance styles are available, catering to personal preferences and the wedding’s style. Some popular options include ballroom, salsa, and swing dancing.

Plan the Choreography

After selecting the song and rehearsing the fundamental steps, it’s time to strategize the choreography for the dance. Decide on the length of the dance, the level of complexity, and any special moves or surprises you want to include. It’s essential to engage in a dialogue with your significant other regarding your everyday schedule since it allows both of you to understand what to expect and harmonize your activities. Additionally, consider incorporating fun and personal touches to the choreography, such as a dip or a twirl that reflects your personality.

Prepare for the Big Day

Prioritizing self-care during the preparation for the wedding day is crucial, as it guarantees that you’re mentally and physically prepared to deliver an outstanding dance performance. Get enough sleep, eat well, and stretch before the dance to prevent any injuries or discomfort. Whenever you experience nervousness or anxiety, take deep breaths and recall the reason behind your dance, which is to commemorate your affection and dedication to one another.

Involve the Guests

Finally, consider involving your guests in the wedding dance to make it a memorable and fun experience for everyone. You can invite your guests to join in halfway through the song, start a group dance, or provide props or accessories for the guests to use. Bear in mind that the objective is to derive pleasure and relish the present with your dear ones.

Conclusion

The dance you share at your wedding is an exceptional and singular occasion that will stay with you for many years. Utilizing these suggestions, you can maximize your dance and generate an unforgettable and cherished experience for both yourself and your attendees. Choose the right song, practice regularly, consider dance lessons, plan the choreography, prepare for the big day, and involve the guests to make your wedding dance a success. Primarily, keep in mind to derive pleasure and relish the present moment, as your wedding day is a commemoration of your affection and dedication to one another. Don’t worry about being perfect or impressing anyone – just be yourselves and let your love shine through in your dance. Your wedding dance represents your partnership and the path you have traveled together, serving as a stunning commencement of your new life as a couple. Congratulations on your wedding, and may you experience boundless joy and contentment!

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Etiquette of Ballroom Dancing: Things You Should and Should Not Do in Ballroom Dancing

An initiation into the world of ballroom dancing

When it comes to ballroom dancing, there are a number of etiquette guidelines that need to be observed in order to make sure that everyone has a nice time. The following is a list of some of the ballroom dancing do’s and don’ts:

Do:

Be sure that you are appropriately attired for the event that you are attending. This rule prohibits the wearing of jeans and footwear.

  • Be sure to go to your appointment or class on time.

Pay attention to what your teacher has to say, and do as they say.

Maintain high standards of personal cleanliness, as well as respect for your spouse.

Don’t:

  • Alcohol should not be consumed before or while attending your lesson or class. Your capacity to dance will suffer as a result.

The proper way to do ballroom dancing

There are a few things that you should do in order to preserve good etiquette when it comes to ballroom dancing. First and foremost, you should treat your spouse with respect at all times. This requires paying attention to them and following the direction they provide. Second, make sure that all of your motions are fluid and elegant. Because ballroom dancing is primarily on elegance, you should avoid making any moves that are jerky or uncomfortable. Lastly, prior to going out on the dance floor, make it a point to refine your technique by doing routines that you’ve been working on at home. And finally, remember to enjoy yourself! Ballroom dancing is meant to be fun, so make sure you are able to let loose and enjoy yourself while you are doing it.

The mistakes to avoid when ballroom dancing

While you are ballroom dancing, there are a few things you ought to steer clear of doing:

-Be careful not to trip over your partner’s foot. Because mistakenly stepping on your partner’s toes may cause quite a bit of discomfort, this is arguably the guideline that you should adhere to the most strictly.
-Resist the urge to exert too much pressure on your spouse. You should stand in such a way that you can sense each other’s presence, but not in such a way that makes you feel awkward.
-Make an effort not to become overly perspiring. This is of utmost significance for the male, since he will be in charge of leading the dance and will most likely have his hands on his partner’s waist.
-Don’t forget to smile! Ballroom dancing is meant to be enjoyable, so you should always give the impression that you’re having a good time while you do it.

How to properly attire yourself for ballroom dancing

When you first start studying ballroom dancing, one of the first things you need to do is be dressed appropriately for the occasion. When it comes down to it, you can’t exactly dance in those street clothes, can you? When deciding what to wear for your ballroom dancing lessons, there are a few things you should bear in mind.

It is quite crucial for females to select a garment that not only provides comfort but also permits unrestricted movement. A voluminous skirt is good since it will make it easier for you to whirl and spin about. Remember that you’ll be on your feet for extended periods of time, so it’s important to choose shoes that aren’t only comfy but also offer a significant amount of support.

When it comes to you, males, you’ll want to wear a suit or tuxedo that not only looks sharp but also allows you to move around freely. Likewise, shoes are quite crucial; you should make sure that the ones you wear are comfortable and provide support. When you’re in the middle of a dance, the last thing you need is for your shoes to fall off!

When you’ve finished putting the finishing touches on your look, it’s time to hit the dance floor! Always keep in mind that having fun and enjoying yourself is the most important thing when it comes to ballroom dancing.

Recommendations for beginners

When it comes to ballroom dancing, there are a number of dos and don’ts that you need to be aware of in order to be successful. These pointers will most certainly come in helpful for you if you are just beginning your journey into the world of ballroom dancing.

Always remember to show your spouse respect, since this is of the utmost importance. This is important in all forms of dance, but especially in ballroom dancing, which can get rather physical at times. You should never try to force your spouse into any position or step; instead, you should follow your partner’s lead and allow them to lead as they see fit.

Never dance with someone who is not on the same level as you; this is another essential piece of advice. If you are just starting out, you should look for a partner who is also at the same stage. If you dance with someone who has more experience than you have, it will simply make the experience more frustrating for you and less fun overall.

Last but not least, remember to respect both your own and your partner’s personal space at all times. Because you will be relatively near to one another when ballroom dancing, it is essential that you show respect for the personal space of one another. If you want to get closer to them, you should wait until they extend an invitation to do so, and even then, you should only do so if you feel at ease doing so.

Ballroom Dancing Talk Etiquette

On the dance floor, it is essential to treat your other dancers with the courtesy and consideration they deserve. While engaging in conversation with other people while ballroom dancing, it is important to keep the following in mind:

-Before beginning a chat, please take a moment to introduce yourself and your companion. It is usually courteous to introduce oneself to others, and doing so makes everyone feel more at ease.

-If someone is dancing, you shouldn’t start a discussion with them. Wait until they are through dancing or until they take a break if you want to chat to someone while they are in the middle of an activity.

-Remember to keep your talks succinct and to the point. Nobody likes to be forced to converse to another person for an extended period of time, especially when they have the option of going out and dancing instead.

-Respect the boundaries of other people’s personal space. While you are having a conversation with someone, avoid getting too near to them, and be conscious of the comfort level of your companion.

-Please end our talk in a courteous manner. You should express gratitude to the individual for their time and let them know that you’ll likely run into them on the dance floor.

Conclusion

Etiquette for ballroom dancing is an essential component of the dance that must not be disregarded under any circumstances. On the dance floor, if you follow the dos and don’ts, you can assure that you will always look and feel your best. In addition, having a good understanding of correct etiquette will assist you in evading potentially humiliating circumstances as well as accidents. Hence, make it a point to brush up on your ballroom dance manners whenever you get the chance.

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Can you teach yourself to ballroom dance?

Ballroom dancing is a beautiful way to spend time with your partner or group of friends. It’s also a great way to meet new people and practice self-confidence, all while looking great and feeling comfortable.

If you’re interested in learning ballroom dancing but don’t know where to start, we have some good news for you! Whether you’re completely new to ballroom or have never stepped foot inside one of these dance halls, there are plenty of ways you can learn. Learning dance doesn’t need to be difficult or expensive. If you’re willing to put in the work, there are many resources out there that will specifically train you how to learn ballroom dancing. Here are some tips on how to learn ballroom dancing on your own:

Take ballroom dance classes

One of the best ways to learn how to dance is by taking ballroom dance lessons. Not only will this be an incredible way to learn how to dance, it will also be a great way to meet new people, practice your social skills and make some great friends. Ballroom dance lessons can be found online or in-person, and there are a variety of things to consider when choosing one. In order to find the best ballroom dance lessons for you, consider these factors: The Instructor: Choose a ballroom dance instructor that you’re comfortable with. If you have any specific questions or concerns, ask them. Ballroom dance lessons can be a great way to meet new people and practice your social skills, so make sure your instructor is someone you would be comfortable chatting with. The Setting: Are you looking for a more traditional setting, or do you prefer to learn in a group setting? Learning in a group setting, such as a ballroom dance class, can be helpful because you can learn at the same pace as everyone else. It’s also a great way to meet new people and practice your social skills. The Style: Do you want to learn how to dance ballroom style, or would you rather learn how to salsa? Choose a style that is a best fit for your style preferences and your level of experience. There are many different ballroom dance styles, so make sure to choose one that is right for you.

Watch ballroom dance videos

Once you’ve taken some ballroom dance lessons or practiced a little, you might want to try out some ballroom dancing for yourself. Ballroom dance videos are a great way to learn even if you don’t have any formal dance training. There are several things to consider before watching a ballroom dance video, however. The Situation: Before watching a video, make sure to factor in your situation. Is it quiet enough where you can hear? Are there any distractions that could hinder your learning? If you can’t practice while you’re at home, is there somewhere quiet you can go to learn? The Style: Make sure to find a video that is a good fit for your level of dancing. For example, if you’ve never learned a ballroom dance before, you might want to watch a beginners video. Make sure to find a video that is right for you and that suits your style preferences. The Instructor: Before you watch a video, find out a little bit about the instructor and the company they’re with. Find out who the director is, what their background is and what they’ve done with the company.

Check out YouTube for ballroom dancing tips and tricks

Ballroom dance videos are a great way to learn how to dance, but they’re not enough. There are a variety of tips and tricks you can learn from watching videos, but you’ll need to be able to apply them in a real-life situation. One of the best ways to do this is by checking out YouTube for ballroom dancing tips and tricks. There are a number of different Youtube channels that focus solely on teaching dance moves and tricks. In order to find the best of the best, consider these factors: The Type: Are you looking for general dance tips, or do you want to learn specific dance moves? You might want to look for different kinds of dance tips or specific dance moves. The Quantity: How many videos are you looking for? There are a lot of videos out there, and you might only want to focus on a few.

Read books about ballroom dancing

If you’re looking for a more intense way to learn, you might want to consider reading books about ballroom dancing. There are many books out there that teach you everything from basic social skills to advanced dancing techniques. In order to find the best books on ballroom dancing, consider these factors: The Price: How much do you want to spend? There are some books that are free, while others are more expensive. The Quality: Is the book helpful? Do the techniques make sense? Is the book easy to understand? Make sure to find a book that is helpful and easy to understand. The Readability: Is the book easy to pick up and put down? How long does it take to read the book? These are all important factors.

Join a local dance group

If you’d prefer to learn from a more hands-on approach, you might want to join a local ballroom dance group. These groups might be affiliated with a local dance school, or they might be a separate group all together. In either case, they’re a great way to learn more hands-on and get deeper into learning how to dance. Make sure to find a local ballroom dance group that is a good fit for you. Consider these factors: The Type: Are you looking for a group that teaches ballroom dancing exclusively, like Blue Ridge Ballroom, or do you want to learn other types of dances? There are many different types of dance groups. The Schedule: Where does the group meet? Are there other events you can attend, such as a salsa dance or social dancing event? You might want to find a local ballroom dance group that is a good fit for you. The Cost: How much does the group cost? There are also many non-profit dance groups that have free or free-with-membership options. Make sure to find one that is a good fit for you.

Keep practicing!

Once you learn how to dance, there is no way to go back and re-learn the basics. If you want to keep enjoying dancing, and you want to be able to dance with confidence and style, you need to continue practicing. If you’re looking for a more intense way to practice and meet new people, you might want to try out a dance group or take part in a social dancing event. These are great ways to meet new people, practice your dancing skills and have a good time. If you’re looking for a more hands-on approach, you might want to learn a new dance move or test a new technique.

Make sure to pick up new skills, such as new dance moves or techniques. There are many different ways you can practice that will help you improve your dancing skills and meet new people in the process. If you’re interested in learning more, or want to meet new people and practice your skills, there are many ways you can do this. The best thing to do is to search online for more information and find a group or event that is a good fit for you.

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A Brief History Of Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing has been around for a very long time at different capacities, and it’s still a very important part of the dance world today. There are many fans of it that enjoy watching it be performed. And there are many people who like to perform it whether that be in a casual or professional capacity.

So in this article we’re going to be learning about how ballroom dancing got its start, and some general history about it to spread knowledge about this beautiful art that means so much to so many people. Let’s get started!

What Is Ballroom Dancing?

Before we really get into the history of it, it only feels right to discuss the technicalities of what ballroom dancing is. Just in case some people aren’t familiar with the term and what all it entails or you just need a quick refresher.

Ballroom dancing is a type of dance style that requires a set of two people to be partners, and these partners flow through a set of prescribed steps. There are many different ballroom dances, and each of them have certain traits and steps that you have to take to be considered as completing the dance.

Jim Bobberton of bakersfielddrywallpros.com often reminds people that dancing is often seen as quite glamorous since it is often portrayed on reality tv shows such as Dancing With the Stars, and it has quite a bit of media attention. There are many popular movies that focus on certain dances within this genre as well. So ballroom dancing is considered very well known across the world.

When Did Ballroom Dancing Originate?

The beginnings of ballroom dancing, although it may not have looked like it does today, is thought to have started in the 16th century. But it could’ve been around for much longer than that in some form. Obviously ballroom dancing has transitioned and shifted a lot throughout history which we will get into.

The first ballroom dance that has been noted was in the 1580s, but it became more and more popular and diverse as time went on. By the 19th century, it was solidly implemented into society and it started to take shape into being the ballroom dancing that we think of today.

How Did Ballroom Dancing Start And What Was It Like?

Much of ballroom dancing was derived from the tradition of court dances from the 17th and 18th centuries. So ballroom dancing has its roots in the higher classes and was only enjoyed at society events, unless you had a hard to come by invite to one of these events then you were going to miss out.

A fun fact about early court dancing is that originally you had to perform these dances while facing the throne or else you would violate a very important rule of court, which was to never turn your back on your ruler! In the 19th century the rules started to relax, and you would only have to face the throne for special events.

But early ballroom dancing wasn’t always performed for royalty. Other privileged people of the time such as rich landowners, renowned military families, and royals with less prestigious titles would host events called “assemblies” in which there would be a lot of ballroom dancing. Even these more “casual” events had a lot of etiquette rules though.

There would typically be an orchestra or band that would play live music that would alternate between faster and slower paces. The dances would’ve been chosen ahead of time and the schedule announced at the beginning of the evening so that everyone was doing the correct dance at the right time.

Public dance halls and other establishments for the lower class also had some ballroom dancing but the rules were much less strict, and it was more about having fun. So the experience was much more relaxed and less regulated.

Other Historical Information About Ballroom Dancing

Now that the larger and most important sections are out of the way, we can discuss some of the smaller historical details that a lot of people might find interesting or have questions about.

How did they learn the dances in the beginning?

Dances were typically taught by the older generation passing their ballroom dancing knowledge along and teaching the younger generation. If the family was well off then dancing tutors may have been hired for the children. And if all else failed, there were pamphlets that you could purchase that would help with the learning process.

What were some of the earlier dances?

The farther you go back in history, the more conservative the dances are. So in the beginning you would see a lot of waltzes, polkas, and other dances that weren’t seen as too scandalous (although even the waltz had a tough time being accepted into society at first). Dances like the Tango and the Jive weren’t very well received at first, and took society some time to warm up to.

Were dance cards really a thing?

We’ve all seen a period piece on tv where the young star is filling up her dance card with all the handsome bachelors at the party, but it almost seems too romantic to have actually existed. Happily it did though, and each young lady had a decorated card that she would use to list names of young men she had accepted for each dance.

So hopefully this article has been informative, and you know a little bit more about ballroom dancing than you did when it started. There is so much more to know and appreciate about ballroom dancing, so make sure to keep learning! And if you’re interested in learning ballroom dancing yourself, then remember that it is still very popular even today and there are plenty of resources out there.

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4 Styles Of Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing has been a recreational and social tradition for hundreds of years, and in more recent years has even transitioned into having a competitive scene that many enjoy participating in or even just watching.

So ballroom dancing is and has been an important part of society for a very long time now, but there are many different varieties of it that need to be appreciated. In honor of all the varieties, today we’ll be discussing four different styles of this art that is ballroom dancing.

There are much more than four styles, but these are some of the more classic dances that you’re more likely to see done. And who knows, after this article you might even want to learn them yourself.

#1 – The Waltz

History –

The Waltz was introduced in the 18th century, and was quite scandalous at the time due to the embracing couples. It was really popular in the 19th century for the first time and maintained that same popularity in the 20th century. Now it is one of the easiest dances to learn for beginners, and is a popular choice for first dancing at weddings.

Characteristics –

Characteristics of the Waltz are step, slide, and step in ¾ time. There’s lots of swaying and “rise and fall” turns in this dance which give it a very elegant feeling. People dancing the Waltz will also keep their shoulders parallel to the floor rather than vertical to it.

Variations –

There are different variations of this dance including the Viennese Waltz, International Style Waltz, and the classic American Waltz. The American Waltz is unique in the way that the pair of dancers can move through closed and open dance positions, so the duo can move away from each other unlike with other Waltz variations.

Extra Note –

The Waltz is also classified as a “smooth” dance in American style dancing, and it shares this category with dances like the Viennese Waltz, the Tango, and the Foxtrot. Overall the Waltz is a beautiful dance with a lot of history, and it truly is one of the best beginner-friendly dances to learn if you’re interested in ballroom dancing yourself.

#2 – The Foxtrot

History –

This dance is one of the most popular ballroom dances of all time, but it was introduced to the world a bit more recently than the Waltz. It was officially introduced in the 1920s, and many think that it originated from African American nightclubs before Vernon and Irene Castle led to it being popularized.

Characteristics –

Some of this dance’s traits are similar to the Waltzz since they are both “smooth” style dances, but the Foxtrot is set apart by its unique combination of fast and slow steps based on the tempo of the song. Longer steps are taken slowly and as the music speeds up the steps get shorter and quicker.

Variations –

With certain choreography and depending on the dancers themselves, there can be variation within every dance style, but the main two variations of the Foxtrot are the social Foxtrot and the slow Foxtrot. The social Foxtrot is the original version and the variation that is best for beginners, while the slow Foxtrot is more complex.

Extra Note –

The music typically associated with the Foxtrot is big band swing-style music. The tempo is normally around 120 to 136 beats per minute and it’s most commonly written in 4/4 time. So if you enjoy dancing to this type of music then the Foxtrot might be the perfect dance for you to learn.

#3 – The Tango

History –

As with a lot of ballroom dances, the Tango was originally only found within lower-class establishments. Its place of origin seems to be Buenos Aires in Argentina, but by 1915 it was becoming popular in all of Europe and only gained popularity from there. It was first introduced to America in New York in 1910.

Characteristics –

One of the Tango’s trademarks is the seductive quality of the dance and the cat-like, almost stalking movement and steps. Other main traits are a close hold and a low center of gravity. And one more quality that differentiates this dance from other smooth dances is that the lead’s arm is farther down on the follower’s back.

Variations –

The Tango might have one of the most well-known variations of any ballroom dance, The Argentine Tango. The Argentine Tango is actually sometimes called the “traditional Tango” because it is so close to the original version, and the ballroom Tango that you see the most often now isn’t as traditional.

Extra Note –

The Tango is a ballroom dance that is shown a lot in the media, there are many popular movies based around it and it is featured often in reality tv shows centered around dance. For this reason, it’s a very popular dance to learn and there are many resources that you can use to do so. We also find that most of our friends enjoy this dance the most compared to the rest. Our past client and dear friend, Tim Raney from redriverhandyman.com, was one of our first clients to take a Tango lesson before he moved out of state. He enjoyed it so much that we now always find a club to dance the Tango in when he visits on vacation.

#4 – The Jive

History –

The Jive is more of a general term that encompasses several different dances that share similar traits and styles than it is one singular dance itself. The Jive became known during the 19th century, and in 1968 it became the fifth International Latin dance to be accepted as a competitive ballroom dancing option.

Characteristics –

This dance is the fastest of the Latin ballroom dances, and it is also the most energetic. There is less actual movement around the dancefloor than with other dances as well. Instead there are more bending, kicks, knee lifting, and rocking of the hips to give it energy while staying mostly in the same spot.

Variations –

There are a lot of variations to the Jive purely because it is a general term and a lot of dances are included in its category. Some of the more popular dances that would be referred to as a Jive would be the Lindy hop, the jitterbug, and the boogie-woogie. But note that there are many more variations as well.

Extra Note –

Since the Jive is such a happy and upbeat dance with so many variations, it’s one of the best dances to learn if you’d like to insert more of your personality into your dance. And it leaves more room for musical selection as well, because you can dance the Jive to a lot of different songs depending on preference.

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Social and Ballroom Dance Classes

Do you love Ballroom and social dances? Us too!

We are currently accepting a small number of students that are totally serious about learning dance, the history of dance, and genuinely appreciate the processes involved. We’re willing to put our time and compassion for dance into your life, if you’re willing and able to learn. If you’re willing and able, let’s get started today!

So where do you start? If you’re just looking to have fun or learn a formal dance for an upcoming wedding, cruise or vacation, then you should sign up for our social dance lessons. These lessons have all the knowledge that you’ll need to shred those other bridesmaids on the dance floor.

We can also teach basic ballroom or Waltz lessons via Skype or other video conference platform. We’ve partnered with several wedding and events coordinators around the US to offer online dancing lessons to soon-to-be married couples. Here’s what one of preferred vendors, planstlevents.com, has to say about our online services, “Blue Ridge Ballroom has been an absolute pleasure to work with. Weddings can be so stressful, especially for those brides and grooms that don’t dance well. BRB has been able to coach several of our clients online and get them comfortable with some basic moves for their special night.”

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more formal, I suggest you learn the fantastic art of ballroom dancing competition team. You can sign up for that here as well.

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