SMOOTH DANCES
One of the main characteristics of Smooth Dances is that they travel around the dance floor in a counterclockwise direction. Within these dances are patterns (steps) that keep you in one place. These maneuvering patterns will help you change direction, turn a corner or stall if someone is in your way. But, for the most part, if you get on the dance floor you need to keep moving with the flow of traffic - just like driving a car.
Another characteristic of Smooth Dances is the fluid, gliding look to them. Even while exhibiting the down-up action of a Waltz or the bounce of a Polka, you should look as though you are floating along the dance floor.
The smooth action of these traveling dances is a direct interpretation of the music. This music is usually played by an orchestra with the emphasis on string instruments rather than percussion.
Some Common Smooth Dances are Foxtrot, Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Tango
RHYTHM DANCES
These dances are called "spot" dances. Meaning you find a spot on the dance floor and all of your dance moves are done in that area. Within these dances you will find patterns (usually advanced ones) that can move you on the floor to another spot but these dances are done predominately in one place rather than constantly traveling.
Rhythm dances have a lively, animated look to them and can be quite energetic.
Rhythm Dance music is characterized by a peppy, bouncy sound with a strong beat.
Some Common Rhythm Dances are Swing/Lindy, Jitterbug/Jive, Hustle
LATIN DANCES
These dances, like Rhythm Dances, are predominately spot dances but the actual look and feel of Latin Dances is quite varied. Dancing is moving to music. That implies that the music comes first and we interpret that music with our bodies. This is no where more evident than in the case of Latin music and dance. One example is the Merengue whose music is known for it's even, regular beat. The dance reflects this with it's marching-like steps. Likewise, Rumba music's smooth, rolling sound is reflected in it's sensual, swaying body movements. And the Cha Cha's moves are an interpretation of a musical syncopation that happens between the 4 and the 1 beat.
One thing that all Latin Dances have in common is that they are danced to music that has a strong beat. Latin bands use many different and unique percussion instruments to get that sound.
Some Common Latin Dances are Salsa/Mambo, Rumba, Cha Cha, Merengue
ELEVATOR DANCES
An Elevator Dance is a humorous term used for "a dance with no steps." Usually the music is so slow that all you can do is sway from side to side. This can also happen when the male partner does not know any steps and he thinks that rocking from side to side in a circular motion for 3 minutes is all right. Well I certainly don't think so! Even if you don't know any floor patterns you can make dancing more enjoyable by different body movements and rhythm changes.
Please don't think that I'm picking on the men but it is the man's job to choreograph the dance, lead the steps and stay on time. It's no wonder so many of them are anxious about learning to dance. My guarantee is if I cannot get a man to move to music and lead a lady on the dance floor in one hour - the lesson is free!