Dancing is an interesting art form that many people are interested in. It may be because it's a good addition to their fitness regimen, a personal hobby, or because they like to party with friends, one thing remains constant. That constant is a problem, the fact that not all people who are thinking of wanting to dance are neither as proficient nor as confident as who they look up to. For most cases, people come up with the excuse that "dancing is just not for them" or that they "have two left feet". If you got directly hit by the last statement, then we suggest that you see our blog post about gaining confidence in dance. If you have already decided to get up and get going, then you must know that taking the first step is certainly important. But what is that first step? With so many dance styles to choose from, you have to decide. After all, if you don't know where you're going, then you're most likely to end up somewhere else.
Whether you're looking for something easy to start with or something more difficult for that early development advantage, here's our take on the best dance styles for beginners.
1. American Smooth
The American Smooth dance style is a collective term for the four dance styles listed below. The difference between American Smooth and Standard International Ballroom dance styles are not that noticeable unless you are training for mastery. Sure, quickstep (a faster and more complex version of foxtrot) not being on the list is obvious enough, but American smooth is known for being more upbeat and uses open positions more often. Being a social dance, it is either dramatic or swift, versatile while keeping elegance in check. It is actually easier to start with because of more simplified steps. The only problem here is that if you want to practice it at home, you might want to have a partner to get the feel for it.
a. Waltz - Viennese Waltz
The waltz is a beginner-friendly dance style that has been used in beginner dance classes for years. It features a simple step called "the box step", wherein you just have to make six steps while following the 3/4 rhythmic pattern. Another form of waltz is the Viennese Waltz, which is about two times faster than the latter and involves more turns. Slow waltz has this "rise and fall" movement observed from the dancer partnered with big steps to match the song's tempo, while the Viennese doesn't allow you to do reach as high since you have less time.
b. Foxtrot
The foxtrot is a smooth alternative to the waltz and shares many similarities in its technical structure. Often mistaken for it, foxtrot is basically the 4/4-time version of the waltz. This means that it has different music, lower rise and fall typically by the knees, and includes a lot of "trots", meaning to move quickly with short steps, rather than rotating.
c. Tango
Tango is a dance style that is often described as intense. Originating from Argentina, it is a fast, often in closed position dance that revolves around gliding, sudden stops and rotations, and especially head turns to emphasize movement.
2. Swing
Swing, unlike the previous ones on this list, relies more on the footwork to pull it off. Like it's music, jazz, most people find it more fun because of its more upbeat and comes with a variety of different, unconstrained dance moves. It's more about being natural and letting your feet do the magic while adding arm movement.
3. Salsa
Hot and spicy, yes, that's the term. Salsa, meaning sauce, is one of the most popular Latin dance styles. The dance style is known to be one of the most, if not the easiest dance style to pick up. The dance consists of a 4/4-time signature and a closed position where arms move, heads are kept constant, and hips swing by taking simple steps to the front and backward.
4. Contra
Contra is a fun, social dance often done in groups. It's so beginner-friendly that you can just walk up and learn it by letting others guide you. It does not require footwork, all it is is just switching partners, spinning, and coordinating with other people. Really, it's a social dance among social dances for its low entry dance skill requirement, you just have to walk and smile!
5. Hip hop
And lastly, hip hop. Hip hop isn't exactly very easy. Much like most modern dance styles, it's easy to get started with but has a high skill ceiling. Hip hop has this vibe with it where just being able to move ain't gon' cut it, it has this suggestive boastfulness that roots from the culture of its makers, the African and Latino Americans as well as Jamaicans. We recommend hip hop because being able to master this style is very rewarding, especially if you want to keep up with pop culture today.
The great thing about learning dancing nowadays is that you could learn it within the comfort of your own home thanks to millions of reference or tutorial videos on the Internet. No matter your purpose, current skill level, or how many dance equipment you own, there will always be that one specific dance style just for you. You just have to try!
Ready to start or further your dance journey? Hit us up at 0422 939 749 and we’ll figure it out together!