Ballroom dancing saw a resurgence in popularity in the late 20th century. Specific dances like the Charleston, jitterbug, and twist were popular in different decades from the 1920s to the 1970s. While ballroom dancing declined in popularity from the late 1950s, membership in dance associations and competitions has increased, especially among those under age 45. Ballroom dancing is now recognized as a potential Olympic sport called dance sport, requiring athletic skills like stamina, coordination, and cardiovascular strength.

1. B<br />allroom dancing is back! It became popular in the United States in the early part of this century and each decade had specific dances associated with it. The 1920s had the Charleston, the 1950s had the jitterbug or lindy, the 60s had the twist, and the 70s had disco, to name a few. Latin American dances such as the tango, rumba and mambo were popular throughout the 30s, 40s and 50s.<br />However, serious ballroom dancing started losing much of its popularity in the late 50s up until recent years. The younger generation was no longer interested in dancing together as couples performing complex dances. They preferred more free style, individualized dance forms ranging from the twist to break dancing.<br />Now the lights are on again in the ballroom as ballroom dancing has been gaining popularity in the United States and Europe. Membership in ballroom dancing associations has skyrocketed, as has the number of contestants in ballroom dancing competitions around the world. Most of the people involved are under the age of 45. In fact, the competitions have junior divisions as well. <br />In recognition of ballroom dancing’s increasing popularity, the International Olympic committee has approved ballroom dancing as a provisional Olympic sport with a new title – dance sport. This means that ballroom dancing could be considered a medal event by 2004.<br />Ballroom dancing, now known as dance sport, requires considerable physical ability, especially at competition levels.<br />Studies have been done to see how ballroom dancing companies to traditional sports. The results were not surprising. Dancers performing a fast dance exerted themselves more than runners running an 800-meter race.<br />In addition to stamina and good physical conditioning, a dancer needs the same set of skills as any other athlete. Where would an athlete be if he or she didn’t have balance, coordination, mental agility, physical agility, a sense of rhythm, and a strong cardiovascular system?<br />1660525935355Ballroom dancing has something to offer everyone. Dances range from the slow, easy flowing steps of the fox trot to the fast-paced lindy, and each dance can be made as simple or complex as you like. You can learn to dance the cha-cha, waltz, rumba, mambo, tango, quickstep, and even the electric slide. Check your local directory to find the dance school nearest you.<br />It’s time to get on the bandwagon, face the music, and dance!<br />