How to Be a Better Ballroom Dancer

Performed by couples for fun and sometimes competition, ballroom dancing is a smooth and graceful style of dance dating to an early English tradition. Each individual dance, such as the foxtrot, waltz, quick-step and tango, is executed to music having a distinct tempo and rhythm specific to each dance. Becoming a better ballroom dancer requires dedicated practice and a willingness to put forth effort to achieve proficiency.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take an advanced class. Advanced classes expand your techniques beyond basic dance steps, focusing on rhythm, timing and posture.

    • 2

      Practice without a partner. Visualize dancing with a partner while focusing on smoothly executing each step to the rhythm of the music. Solo practice is designed to improve your own technique without the distraction of having to focus on your partner’s movements.

    • 3

      Enroll in a step aerobics or ballet class to improve your overall coordination, timing, stamina and lower-body strength.

    • 4

      Perform balancing exercises. Stand on one foot while lifting the opposite leg out to the side. Slowly swing your leg around to your back as far as possible. Hold the position for a few seconds and then bring your leg to the front. Repeat the exercise with your other leg. Lean on the back of a chair, if necessary, in the beginning to help maintain your balance.

    • 5

      Practice “lead-follow” with a partner. Stand facing your partner, arms bent at the elbows with your hands slightly extended. Place the palms of your open hands against your partner’s open palms. Move to the beat of the music while maintaining light contact with your partner’s hands at all times. Begin with one partner leading and the other following, as in traditional partner dancing. Once in motion, both partners randomly and repeatedly say “switch.” When they do, which can be at any time, the partners immediately switch roles. The goal in lead-follow is to improve your ability to read your partner’s body language, enhancing your ability to move in unison with your partner regardless of which partner is leading.