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Have you ever wondered what couple or partner dancing is?
Maybe you’ve seen some people moving together on the dance floor, holding hands, spinning, and smiling. Maybe you’ve thought, “Wow, that looks fun, but I have no idea what they’re doing or how to do it.” Maybe you’ve even wished you could join them, but you were too shy, too busy, or too afraid of stepping on someone’s toes.
Well, fear not, my friend, because I’m here to tell you everything you need to know about couple dancing. And trust me, it’s not as scary as it looks. In fact, it’s one of the most enjoyable, rewarding, and healthy activities you can do with another human being.
and you don't need a partner or friend to do it!
What is Couple Dancing?
Couple dancing is a form of social dancing where two people move together in harmony with music. It’s a way of expressing yourself, connecting with others, and having fun. There are many different styles of couple dancing, such as salsa, tango, swing, waltz, and more. Each style has its own history, culture, and rules, but they all share one common element:
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You don't need a partner to do couple dancing
A lot of couple dancing is based on going to a dance venue and dancing (and becoming friends) with other people going there. You can of course go there with a partner but it's not needed.
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How Can You Start Couple Dancing?
Couple dancing is not easy to learn from a book, a video, or a blog post. It’s something best experienced. The best way to start couple dancing is to find a local dance studio, club, or event near you and sign up for a class, a workshop, or a social dance. You don’t need any prior experience, any special equipment, or any fancy clothes. You just need a pair of comfortable shoes, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn.
If you’re feeling nervous, don’t worry. You’re not alone. Everyone was a beginner once, and everyone makes mistakes. The most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the music, the movement, and the connection with your partner. Remember, couple dancing is not a competition, a test, or a performance.
It’s a conversation, a game, and a celebration.
What Are Some Popular Styles of Couple Dancing?
As I mentioned before, there are many different styles of couple dancing, each with its own charm and challenge. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Salsa: A spicy and sensual dance that originated in Cuba and Puerto Rico and spread all over the world. It’s characterized by fast and rhythmic movements, sharp turns, and intricate footwork. It’s usually danced to Latin music, such as salsa, merengue, bachata, and reggaeton
- Tango: A passionate and elegant dance that originated in Argentina and Uruguay and became a global phenomenon. It’s characterized by close and intimate embrace, slow and smooth movements, and dramatic pauses. It’s usually danced to Argentine music, such as tango, milonga, and vals
- Swing: A lively and playful dance that originated in the USA and influenced many other dances. Mind you that "Swing" is a huge umbrella name for dances such as Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag and Boogie Woogie (and many more!). It’s characterized by bouncy and energetic movements, spins, and kicks. It’s usually danced to swing music, such as jazz, blues, and rock and roll
There are many sub-styles of swing, such as:
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Lindy Hop: The original and most popular style of swing, which was born in the African-American communities of Harlem, New York City, in 1928. It’s named after the aviator Charles Lindbergh, who “hopped the Atlantic” in 1927. It’s a fusion of many dances that preceded it, such as jazz, tap, breakaway, and Charleston. It’s also considered a jazz dance and a member of the swing dance family
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West Coast Swing: A modern and versatile style of swing, which evolved from Lindy Hop in the 1940s and 1950s. It’s named after the West Coast of the USA, where it was popularized by Hollywood dancers and musicians. It’s a smooth and elastic dance that can adapt to any music, from blues and R&B to pop and hip hop
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Waltz: A graceful and romantic dance that originated in Europe and became a social standard. It’s characterized by flowing and circular movements, rise and fall, and rotation. It’s usually danced to classical music, such as waltz, polka, and mazurka
Where Can You Find Couple Dancing Near You?
If you’re interested in trying couple dancing, you don’t have to look far. There are many opportunities to learn and practice couple dancing near you, such as:
- Dance studios: These are places where you can take classes, workshops, and private lessons from professional instructors. They usually offer different levels, styles, and schedules to suit your needs and preferences. They also often host social dances, parties, and events where you can practice and meet other dancers
- Dance clubs: These are places where you can go to enjoy music, drinks, and dancing with other people. They usually have a dance floor, a DJ, and a bar. They also often have theme nights, live bands, and shows. Some dance clubs specialize in certain styles of music and dancing, while others offer a variety
- Dance events: These are special occasions where you can experience the best of couple dancing. They usually involve competitions, performances, workshops, and social dances. They also often feature famous dancers, instructors, and musicians. Some dance events are local, while others are national or international.
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