Whatever reasons you have for dancing, you will end up with the same dilemma: what type of dance class should you attend? Here are the common types of dance and the sorts of things you will be expected to learn – just choose one that suits your personality, aspirations and physical aptitude and you’ll soon be on the way to being the belle of the ballroom.

Ballroom dancing 1: Traditional

The subject of countless popular films and reality TV shows, ballroom dancing is what most people used to think of as ‘show’ dancing. It’s an umbrella term that describes a certain formal approach to technique, and often a correspondingly named type of music. Examples of ballroom dancing are the Waltz, Cha-Cha, Tango and Foxtrot. Although you’re basically required to master the fundamental steps, freestyle dancing is accepted and even encouraged for intermediate and professional dancers. If you’re interested in trying out this type of dancing, be aware that some include intricate steps.

Ballroom dancing 2: Lindy Hop and Jive

The Lindy Hop is the ballroom dance considered to be the father of all Swing dances, those highly athletic dances accompanied by syncopated big band music, especially jazz, from the 1920s onwards. It is known for its unique, athletic style, and often contains aerial jumps, twists and flips. Jive is a ballroom dance style that originated in the United States from African-Americans. It is a lively form of Swing dance, and a variation of the Jitterbug. A high level of fitness is needed. Jive is one of the five International Latin ballroom dances (along with the Cha-Cha, Samba, Rumba and Paso Doble). The five International Standard ballroom dances are: Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot and Quickstep.

Hip-hop and Break dancing

The most popular form of modern dancing, thanks to stars like Jennifer Lopez and Nelly, Hip-hop is also known as street grooves and is preferred by but not limited to teenagers and young adults because of its choreography. Hip-hop is a good and fun place to start for amateurs. Break dancing is gymnastics with a groove. Cartwheels, head spins, splits and jumps are just a few moves that you’ll be asked to learn if you’re interested in this type of dance. Not for the unfit – maybe try Hip-hop instead, which is more about the poses and the gear you’re wearing. As opposed to ballroom dancing, these modern styles are in the main part solo dances.

Why partner dancing is great fun

• It’s social, you are always dancing with somebody else
• You will meet a lot of people in classes and at dances
• It can be less physically demanding than solo styles

What to think about when choosing a dance style

• What dance interests you and will motivate you to learn it?
• Do you have friends who already dance a particular style?
• What dance techniques are available and popular in your area?
• What style suits your physical capabilities?

Most dance schools don’t mind people watching their dance lessons to decide if they want to learn. Accompanying your friends to his or her class can help you decide if that technique is one you would like to take up. It’s also important to make sure that the dance you want to learn is taught in your area. It’s no use wanting to do bootscootin’ if there is no one within commuting distance who can teach it to you! Find out what dance schools there are in your area and what they teach before you buy those new shoes!