Your Guide to 5 Essential Partner Dances

How many partner dances are there in the World?

Determining the exact number of partner dance styles is difficult because dance is a constantly evolving art form, and new variations and fusions emerge all the time. However, there are hundreds of documented partner dance styles worldwide, each with its unique history, cultural significance, and set of movements.

Here are some of the major categories of partner dances:

  • Ballroom dances: These are standardized dances performed in competitions and social settings. They typically involve elegant footwork, posture, and specific forms of partner connection. Some popular examples include waltz, tango, foxtrot, quickstep, and Viennese waltz.

  • Latin dances: These dances originated in Latin America and are known for their lively rhythms, sensual movements, and improvisational elements. Some popular examples include salsa, merengue, cha-cha-cha, rumba, and bachata.

  • Swing dances: These dances developed in the early 20th century in the United States and are characterized by their energetic and playful movements. Some popular examples include Lindy Hop, West Coast Swing, East Coast Swing, and Charleston.

  • Folk dances: These dances are rooted in specific cultural traditions and are often passed down through generations. They can be used for social gatherings, celebrations, and storytelling. Some popular examples include square dance, contra dance, polka, and mazurka.

  • Club dances: These dances are designed for social dancing in nightclubs and other social settings. They often incorporate elements from various other styles and are influenced by current music trends. Some popular examples include salsa on1, salsa on2, bachata fusion, and zouk.

This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other exciting and diverse partner dance styles to explore!

Think of dancing like a whole language with many dialects. 

That is why at Dance-ology Studios, we rotate our classes regularly to ensure you're constantly exposed to new “dialects" of movement. 

By experiencing different styles, you'll become a more well-rounded dancer. You'll not only impress everyone at social events, but you'll also discover a hidden talent you never knew you had!

In March 2024, we are featuring the following partner dance classes that are open for everyone to attend:

So starting this week, we are adding a new fun, energetic partner dance class: 

  • EVERY TUESDAY at 7 pm join us for the Push-Pull Swing: Learn the footwork, turns, and the unique "push-pull" technique. Gain confidence on the dance floor, meet new people, and have a blast! This is your chance to improve your coordination, rhythm, and fitness all while having fun in a social environment.

Westies Wednesdays just got even better! We now have 2 back to back group classes followed by a dance social

  • EVERY WEDNESDAY:

  1. 6:30 pm - West Coast Swing BASICS (BEGINNERS) - Master the basics and build a strong foundation.

  2. 7:30 pm - West Coast Swing (ALL LEVELS) - A progressive class where all levels are welcome

  3. 8:30 pm - Dance Social (Free for students attending group classes) - practice your dance moves & enjoy the networking 


All individual classes are $15 per person (Attend both Wednesday classes for just $20 per person). Dance Social is free for students attending that day group classes (and $5 for guests)

💃 Dance-ology Studio is located at Park Plaza, 533 N. Nova Road, Suite 105 Ormond Beach, FL 32174

Come join us for group classes or take private lessons and make your dance dreams finally come true!

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The Dance of Change