How to Become a Good Social Ballroom Dancer | 5 Key Elements

Many people think learning to dance is simply about learning steps. This is a total misconception. I'm writing this blog post to tell you what other important things you have to learn during your ballroom dance training. Below are 5 key elements necessary  to become a good social ballroom dancer. You can also check out the video posted here that explains the same concepts in motion!

1. Connection

You need to know how to lead or follow so that you can connect with your partner and move as one unit.

2. Steps and Patterns

You need to learn steps and how to connect them so that you can move around the dance floor with your partner smoothly. You should also know how to spin and dip to make your dancing more interesting.

3. Music and Counts

You have to be able to hear the beat, count the music and dance to whatever song that is playing.

4. Navigation

It's not only you on a social dance floor. You must be able to navigate around people and any obstacles on a crowded dance floor.

5. Dance Floor Etiquette

To be a truly good social dancer, you have to know the dos and don'ts on the dance floor so that everybody enjoys dancing with you and you can have the most fun on the dance floor.

Learning to dance is similar to learning a new language. Before you can carry a full conversation with someone, it takes time and a lot of practice. But remember, everybody is born with the ability and urge to dance. If you try, you will succeed!

What other things you need to learn to become a good social dancer? Please share you thoughts!​

Szewai (C-Y) Lee is the founder of Duet Dance Studio, a Chicago dance studio that offers Latin and ballroom dance lessons, wedding dance instruction, and BYOB dance parties. Besides dancing, Szewai enjoys discovering hidden gems in the city, finding great music and making short videos about people and things that inspire her. You can find Szewai on LinkedIn and Google+.