The difference between American and International Ballroom Dance

American ballroom vs. International Ballroom: What's the Difference?

Ballroom dancing is a classic and elegant art form that has been enjoyed by people of all ages for generations. With its choreography and discipline, it requires patience and commitment to master. However, a common question among dancers has been, "what's the difference between American ballroom and international ballroom?" In this blog post, we'll explore the similarities and differences between the two styles of dance.

First, let's define American ballroom and international ballroom. American ballroom typically consists of five dances: the Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, and Quickstep. Each dance is typically characterized by a larger frame, a focus on footwork and rhythm, and a more relaxed posture. In contrast, international ballroom includes five dances as well: the Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, and Quickstep. The dances are known for their more precise and structured movements, a focus on technique and posture, and the placement of the couple on the dance floor.

One of the most notable differences between American and international ballroom is the way the dancers hold each other. In American ballroom, couples hold each other in a closed dance frame, with the man's right arm around the woman's back and his left hand holding her right hand. In international ballroom, the couple holds a more open dance frame, with both dancers' arms extended away from their bodies at chest height.

Another key difference lies in the music selection. American ballroom tends to use popular and contemporary music for competitions, whereas international ballroom typically uses traditional ballroom music. This distinction in music can affect the choreography and the pace of the dance.

The footwork in American ballroom is more relaxed and fluid compared to international ballroom. American ballroom dancers will often have more freedom of movement, allowing them to create a more natural flow and dynamic in their dancing. In contrast, international ballroom dancers are expected to focus more on precision and technique, often incorporating intricate footwork patterns and sharper movements.

Finally, the styles of dress for both American and international ballroom also differ. American ballroom costumes are often more modern and may contain more embellishments, such as rhinestones or sequins, compared to the more classic and elegant styles of international ballroom.

In conclusion, the differences between American ballroom and international ballroom include their dance frame, music selection, footwork, and dress styles. Regardless of the style, both American and international ballroom require discipline, focus, and a passion for the art of dance. Whether you prefer a more relaxed and modern style like American ballroom or a more traditional and structured style like international ballroom, it is important to remember that the beauty of ballroom dance is found within the journey of learning and perfecting the craft. So, lace-up those dance shoes and let's hit the floor!