Born in 18th-century Europe, the Waltz revolutionized social dancing with its close hold and sweeping rotations. Modern ballroom Waltz retains that dreamy quality—think weightless turns and a gentle rise-and-fall motion.

Contemporary variations incorporate more open work and syncopated steps, but the essence remains: smoothness above all. Perfect your frame first—your arms should create a stable "circle" that moves as a single shape.

Argentine Tango may dominate social media with its dramatic dips, but International Ballroom Tango offers sharper, staccato movements. Both versions share that unmistakable intensity—a conversation through the body.

The secret? Controlled abandon. Unlike Waltz, Tango embraces tension—your connection should feel like a taut wire, allowing instant response to subtle weight shifts. New dancers often mistake aggression for passion; true Tango is about precision.

Developed in 1910s America, Foxtrot combines the best of Waltz and Tango—flowing movements with playful syncopation. Its "slow-slow-quick-quick" rhythm makes it endlessly adaptable, from vintage jazz to modern pop covers.

Advanced dancers add "sway" for drama, but beginners should master the feather step first—a signature move where partners step diagonally between each other's feet. The key is maintaining a smooth top line while the feet work briskly beneath.

Twice as fast as standard Waltz, this dizzying dance requires impeccable posture and spot turns to avoid collisions. Though historically scandalous (it was once banned for being "too intimate"), today it's a staple at elite competitions.

Modern choreography incorporates fleckerls (rotating steps in place) for showstopping moments. But remember: speed means nothing without control. Practice the basic turn at half-tempo before accelerating.