Have you ever watched people glide effortlessly across a dance floor and thought, “I wish I could dance like that”? Maybe you’ve felt awkward at weddings, parties, or social events, worried about stepping on toes or looking clumsy. Or maybe you’re just craving a hobby that’s fun, elegant, and confidence-boosting.
No matter the case. Let us tell you something.
Dancing isn’t just for naturally talented dancers. It’s for anyone willing to take that first step. Even if your “two left feet” have been holding you back. And if you want to try ballroom dancing in Los Angeles, you’re in luck. The city is packed with award-winning instructors, welcoming studios, and social dance events that make it easy to get started.
And let’s face it. Life can be hectic, isolating, and stressful. Dancing gives you a chance to slow down, focus, and be fully present. Plus, if you’re looking to shed extra pounds, dancing can help you lose some weight!
Ballroom dancing is a graceful, partner-based form of dance. It’s typically divided into Standard (or Smooth) dances (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot…) and Latin (or Rhythm) dances (Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba…). Each dance follows specific steps and timing, so we can easily say it’s both an art and a discipline.
Basic Steps: Each dance has a sequence of steps timed to the music.
For example:
Waltz: Smooth “1-2-3” steps, forward for the leader, backward for the follower.
Foxtrot: Gliding slow-slow-quick-quick steps.
Cha-Cha: Energetic “2-3-4 & 1” steps with lively side movements.
Rumba: Romantic slow-quick-quick steps with hip movement.
So it’s safe to say that ballroom dancing is a full-body and mind-engaging activity that offers rewards far beyond the steps themselves.
Want to start now? You can book your intro lesson here.
These are the dances you often see in classic films. They are characterized by flowing movement around the entire dance floor, a graceful posture, and elegance.
The granddaddy of all ballroom dances. The Waltz is all about dreamy, romantic elegance. Think sweeping turns and a graceful "rise and fall" motion. In triple time (1-2-3), famous waltzes include classic songs like "The Blue Danube." They can also include modern songs like "Come Away With Me" by Norah Jones.
Why Learn It?
It’s the perfect foundation dance. The Waltz teaches you essential skills, such as posture and how to move in harmony with your partner.
Smooth, sleek, and effortlessly cool. The Foxtrot is often described as "walking with style" to big band or jazz music. It's versatile, fun, and less rigid than the Waltz. In 4/4 time, it’s danced to artists like Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, and Ella Fitzgerald. ("Fly Me to the Moon" is a perfect example).
Why Learn It?
It’s the go-to social dance. The Foxtrot's basic box step is easy to grasp, making it fantastic for beginners who want to look good on the dance floor quickly.
Dramatic. Intense. Passionate. Unlike the other smooth dances, the Tango is characterized by sharp, staccato movements and strong head snaps. And of course, a strong connection between partners. The most iconic Tango music is, of course, Argentinian Tango. Ballroom (American or International) Tango, on the other hand, has its own powerful sound.
Why Learn It?
If you want to make a statement, learn the Tango. It’s a powerful dance that builds confidence.
If you want to learn Latin ballroom dances, get ready to move your hips!
Latin ballroom dances are typically performed in a smaller area of the floor, are more rhythmically complex. They’re focused on hip action, playful flirtation, and expression.
It’s a slow, sensual, and deeply expressive dance. It tells a story of romance and seduction through controlled, fluid movements. It’s danced on slow, soulful 4/4 time ballads. Interesting fact, rumba is often called the ”dance of love”.
Why Learn It?
The Rumba is the foundation for hip motion in Latin dancing. Once you master it and its controlled, weight-changing movements, you can apply the technique in all other Latin styles.
The Cha-Cha is a lively, fun dance that gets its name from the distinct three quick steps (cha-cha-cha) that replace the slow step in the Mambo.
Why Learn It?
It’s an absolute mood-lifter! The Cha-Cha is energetic but has a manageable tempo, and it is one of the most popular and accessible Latin dances for beginners.
While technically a "nightclub" dance, Salsa is a cornerstone of most social dance scenes and is a must-learn for any dance enthusiast.
Why Learn It?
Salsa is everywhere! Learning it opens up a whole world of social dancing opportunities. And besides, it’s a fantastic exercise!
We also create personalized wedding dance choreographies for couples seeking a magical first dance. Our ballroom dance experts will help you learn the right steps and be prepared on your Big Day!
Since a wedding comes with many expenses, we’ve created flexible packages and payment plans that are easy on your wallet.
Getting married soon and need a wedding choreography?
Check out our pricing by clicking here.
Still searching for ballroom dancing classes?
PRO DANCE Studios has been the best dance studio in LA since 2018. We welcome dancers across West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood.
We’ve built our reputation not just on teaching steps, but on delivering a whole new experience from the moment you arrive. Our classes are beginner-friendly, and we teach by the Prism Method. This method breaks down complex techniques into intuitive lessons everyone can follow.
This methodology is brought to life by our professional, highly qualified teachers, including US Professional Champions Iaroslav and Liliia Bieliei.
Join us now.
Click this link and book your intro dance lesson.