Latin Ballroom Dance

The term – Latin Ballroom Dance – is more of a generic name for partner dancing, both socially as well as competitively, referring to a number of forms of Ballroom dancing, as well as Latin American folk dancing. Truly the Latin Ballroom dance scene is very broad, and in order to narrow down certain dance styles, the International Dancesport Federation has outlined some of the most popular dances in its list, such as the Rumba, Samba, Cha-Cha-Cha, Paso doble, Bolero, Jive, Tango, and sometimes Meringue and Mambo.

Known for its tantalizing hip moves and sensual energy, Latin ballroom dance is taking its presence from the competitive dance world to television, and the nigh club scene. Oftentimes it is the Hollywood silver screen appearance of Latin and ballroom dancers that enthrals the viewers, and entices you to try out the moves yourself.

As opposed to other dances of the ballroom world, Latin ballroom dancing usually has faster passed rhythms, and is more expressive in its sensuality. It is definitely a partner style of dance, and many times requires closed position and closer physical contact, in order to express the sultry rhythms and melodies of Latin music. The colourful rhythms of Latin Ballroom dance and the often teasing movements make these dances entertaining to take part in and breathtaking to watch.

It is not very difficult to learn Latin Ballroom dances, as many of them share common footwork, so once you learn one style of dance, learning the next one becomes easier with practice.

At Vadim Mostovoy’s Dance Studio nearly all of the above dances are taught in both programs; the social dance program, as well as the competitive dance program.

So what exactly are the most popular Latin ballroom dance styles about?

• Rumba – It is probably the most sensual dance out of all dances in this category. Rumba is known as the dance of love, due to the emotional expression of slow and fast alternating movements. It is also quite simple to learn, and many of our students consider it their favourite.


• Samba – Takes its roots from the energetic Brazilian dance which is made up of frequent turns and graceful jumps. It is generally more difficult to learn, as it is a very quick, but envirograting dance.


• Cha-cha – Is a very cheeky dance in which the partners exchange flirty moves and perform various dance tricks. The rhythm is simple and is usually dance to Latin Pop music. Very fun dance to learn and loved by many.


• Paso Doble – The literal translation form Spanish is “double-step”, which is march-like dance, and its rhythm is always heard at Spanish bull-fights. The notion behind this dance is Toreador versus the Bull and this is exactly the type of energy that both dance partners try to re-create in their dance movements.


• Jive - Is a quick and energetic dance, which is a faster form of Swing that has been transitioned from country dances. It is a very fun style of Latin dance, but one that requires some physical stamina.