Latin Dance vs Ballroom: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever Googled “ballroom dancing,” you’ve probably ended up even more confused. Is Latin dance part of ballroom? Are Cha Cha and Waltz from the same family? And why does every dance movie seem to just call everything “salsa”?
Let’s clear this up once and for all. Latin dance and ballroom dance are related, but they’re not the same thing. Think of them like cousins who both show up to the party, but one’s wearing sequins and the other’s in a tux.
Ballroom Dance 101
“Ballroom” is actually a big umbrella term. Traditionally, ballroom dance is split into two main styles:
international Standard or Ballroom – Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz, Quickstep.
international Latin Ballroom – Cha Cha, Samba, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive.
Confusing? Yep. The term ballroom includes Latin dances when we’re talking about competitive ballroom dance. But outside of competitions, “ballroom” often just means waltzy, formal dances you’d see at weddings or on Dancing with the Stars.
additionally, here in the usa, we also have ‘american smooth’ and ‘american rythym’:
american smooth – Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Viennese Waltz.
american rythym – Cha Cha, rumba, swing, bolero and mambo.
these styles have been added to over the years, with their own characteristics that seperate them from the international styles! more on that later!
Latin Dance 101
Latin dances are fiery, rhythmic, and expressive. They’re built on body action, rhythm, and personality. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main styles you’ll learn at our studio:
Cha Cha – Fun, flirty, with quick footwork.
Rumba – Slower, romantic, with smooth hip action.
Samba – Energetic and bouncy, like a dance party in Rio.
Paso Doble – Dramatic and powerful, inspired by Spanish bullfights.
Jive – Fast, swingy, and full of kicks and spins.
Latin is about storytelling, musicality, and performance. It’s less about looking royal and more about owning your energy.
The Key Differences
Posture and Frame: Ballroom (Standard) dancers maintain a formal, upright frame with a partner connection that looks like a royal portrait. Latin dancers have more freedom, with fluid body movement and sharper, rhythmic action.
Music: Ballroom dances are often set to classical or smooth orchestral music. Latin is all about drums, percussion, and that addictive beat.
Vibe: Ballroom says, “Good evening, shall we dance?” Latin says, “Let’s turn up the music and have some fun.”
Which Style Is Right for You?
If you love grace, elegance, and the feeling of floating, start with ballroom.
If you’re into high energy, spice, and fun rhythms, Latin is your thing.
Or… do both. Many dancers at Brooklyn DanceSport Club LA train in both styles and love the balance.
Ready to Try Latin (or Both)?
You don’t have to pick a lane right away. Our beginner classes give you a taste of each styles, and you can always branch into one or the other, once you’re hooked (spoiler: you will be).
Check out our schedule and come see which style feels like home.