Ballroom Dancing

Ballroom dancing refers collectively to a set of partner dances, which originated in Germany and are now enjoyed both socially and competitively around the globe. It also refers to any form of formal social dancing used as recreation. Its performance and entertainment aspects are also widely enjoyed on stage, in film, and on television.

Ballroom Dancing consists of several different partner dances and is divided into two categories. The first category is called the standard group; partners dance in a closed position, where both body-contact and co-ordination of movement are to be maintained. This includes the foxtrot, waltz, tango, quickstep and Viennese waltz. The second category is called the Latin group; These are generally faster-paced, more sensual, and have more rhythmic expression. Time is 4/4 straight rhythm or related. Couples in the basic position stand face-to-face. Music may be Latin American or contemporary popular music. This includes the rumba, cha cha, mambo, samba, and various types of swing.

To get a good dance position, the man should place his right hand against the lower part of the woman's left shoulder blade. The man should put some pressure with his right hand against her shoulder blade and the woman should rest her shoulder blade into the man's hand. This will create a good connection. The lady should rest her left arm on the man's right arm with her left hand on the man's right upper arm. The lady's left arm and the man's right arm should remain connected and in contact throughout the dance. The palm of the man's left hand and the palm of the woman's right hand will connect with slight pressure towards each other and be held approximately at eye level. The woman will stand slightly to the man's right side and should remain there throughout the dance. The man can help this by making sure his right hand, even though its on the lady's back, stays directly in front of the right side of his chest.Shekainah Jean Sabańa-BS IE