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 Dance is a universal language that connects people across cultures, generations, and abilities.  

While partner dancing, ballroom dancing, and social dancing are often used interchangeably, they have unique meanings. This FAQ is designed to clarify these terms and inspire curiosity about

the beauty, inclusivity, and benefits of dance.

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​What is dance?

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Dance is an expressive movement to a musical rhythm, that can be performed solo, in groups, or with a partner. It exists in every culture and can be social, artistic, or competitive. Some dances emphasize storytelling and tradition, while others focus on personal expression, fitness, or structured competition.

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What is partner dance?

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Partner dance refers to any dance style where two people move together in a coordinated way, typically following a lead-and-follow structure. Partner dances exist in ballroom, social, and folk traditions, and they can be danced recreationally or competitively. Examples include the Waltz, Salsa, Argentine Tango, Polka or West Coast Swing. While partner dancing typically involves two people, many partner dances can also be practiced solo or in groups, making them accessible to dancers of all backgrounds and ability levels.

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Why is partner dancing unique?

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Partner dancing teaches more than movement—it develops communication, cooperation, and empathy. The lead-and-follow dynamic builds trust, awareness, and adaptability. Unlike solo sports, partner dancing emphasizes nonverbal connection and teamwork. All these abilities can enrich not only dancing but everyday life as well. 

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What is ballroom dance? 

 

While it might sound fancy, ballroom dance is simply a collection of partner dances that follow specific patterns and techniques, usually performed in social or competitive settings. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it’s defined as "any of various usually social dances (such as the tango, two-step, waltz) in which couples perform set moves". And it’s as fun as it sounds! The Oxford English Dictionary puts it simply as "a type of formal social dancing in which couples perform conventional steps to music,", like the graceful waltz or the lively tango.

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How did ballroom dancing developed and what styles it currently includes?

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Ballroom dance originated in the 17th and 18th centuries, initially enjoyed by the European upper classes in courts and grand ballrooms. While ballroom dancing traces its origins to European court dances, some styles, such as the Viennese Waltz and Polka, began as folk dances before being refined into formal ballroom styles. Over time, ballroom dance absorbed influences from various cultures and became accessible to all classes, It evolved into a structured system of partner dances, both as social dances and as competitive styles recognized by major dance organizations. Competitive ballroom dancing is known as Dancesport.  

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Currently there are two primary schools of ballroom dance: International and American.

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International Style is divided into:

• International Standard Style: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep

• International Latin Style: Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive

American Style includes:​​

• American Rhythm Style: Cha-Cha, Rumba, East Coast Swing, Bolero, Mambo

• American Smooth Style: Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz

While ballroom dancing follows specific technique, and dances are formally structured for Dancesport competitions,

anyone can enjoy them at a social level without worrying about competition rules!

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What is the difference between ballroom, folk, country, and social dances?

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Ballroom Dance (Modern Definition): A structured system of partner dances with defined techniques and steps. Recognized by organizations like the WDSF (World DanceSport Federation) and WDC (World Dance Council). Main styles as stated above: International and American Style.

 

Folk Dance: Community-based dances tied to specific cultural traditions, such as the Polish Krakowiak, Irish Ceili, Italian Tarantella or Colombian Danza Bambuco.  Many ballroom dances evolved from folk styles.

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Country Dance: A broad category that includes partner and group dances associated with Country and Western music. Examples include Two-Step, Line Dancing, Country Swing and Country Waltz. These dances are popular in social settings like country dance halls and festivals but also have competitive circuits under the United Country Western Dance Council (UCWDC).

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Social (Nightclub) Dances: Dances performed in informal settings like clubs or parties. These include Salsa, Bachata, West Coast Swing, Hustle or Argentine Tango. While these dances are often informally grouped under ballroom dances, they each have distinct characteristics. Competitive forms of these dances also exist, with competitions held during DanceSport events or separate events, such as the West Coast Swing competition circuit.

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Do I need to be athletic or have prior experience to dance?

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Not at all! Dance is for everyone. Many ballroom and social dances use simple steps rooted in folk traditions, making them easy to learn.

Unlike traditional sports, dance focuses on coordination, rhythm, and connection rather than strength or endurance. While professional dancers train like athletes, partner dancing is for all body types and ability levels. Many people start dancing for fitness, fun, or relaxation—no extreme athleticism required. In fact, dance is one of the most adaptable activities, with variations for different mobility levels, including wheelchair dancing and modified styles for all abilities.

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Is partner dancing gender-specific?

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No! Partner dancing is about movement, connection, and creativity, not gender. While traditional ballroom roles are defined as "leader" and "follower," anyone can dance in either role. Professional dancers typically learn both roles to become more versatile and empathetic and many dance teachers encourage role fluidity in social settings for the same reason.  The most important thing is enjoying the dance, regardless of who you dance with!

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Can people of all abilities dance?

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Absolutely! Dance is adaptable, and many styles can be enjoyed by people of all mobility levels, including those who use wheelchairs. Adaptive dance programs exist worldwide, proving that movement and rhythm are for everyone.

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Can I practice partner dancing alone or in a group?

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Yes! Many partner dances have solo variations that allow dancers to improve their technique, rhythm, and coordination before dancing with a partner. Group dance classes and formations also offer a fun way to experience the benefits of movement without needing a partner. 

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Do all forms of dance have both recreational and competitive versions?

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Almost every style of partner dance can be enjoyed socially or competitively.

• Recreational (Social) Dancing: Focuses on enjoyment, social connection, and self-expression. Danced at parties, clubs, festivals, and community events.

• Competitive Dancing: Follows structured rules and judging criteria. Competitions exist in ballroom dances, Salsa, West Coast Swing, and even folk traditions like Irish Step Dancing or Polish Folk Dances. 

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Do competitions take away from the essence and fun of dance?

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Not at all! While some dancers thrive on the challenge of competitions, dance at its core remains an art form rooted in expression, tradition, and connection. Whether danced for joy, competition, or performance, its essence and spirit remain the same. 

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Although being judged can seem intimidating, competitions provide valuable benefits:

• Personal Growth: They challenge dancers to improve their technique, artistry, and endurance.

• Community & Connection: Dancers bond through shared experiences, forming friendships and networks across different dance styles and cultures.

• Preservation & Evolution: By setting standards, competitions help maintain a dance’s integrity while allowing it to evolve in exciting new ways.

• Confidence Building: Performing under pressure teaches resilience, self-assurance, and stage presence—skills that extend beyond the dance floor.

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Why does dance matter?

Dance is more than just an art form—it is a healing practice, a cultural tradition, and a way to connect with others. It has been used for centuries in ceremonies, storytelling, and as a form of therapy.

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 At United in Dance, we are dedicated to promoting the therapeutic benefits of movement for mental and physical well-being, preserving and celebrating cultural dance traditions from around the world, making dance accessible to all, regardless of background, ability, or experience.

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