Cha-Cha - A cheeky, lively and flirtatious dance with a light, bubbly atmosphere. Distinctive syncopation where 5 steps are danced to four beats. 'One, two, cha cha cha' description.

Salsa - An energetic, sexy latin dance complete with lots of spins and a forward and back movement. Very popular in latin clubs along with the Merengue.

Merengue - Very fast dance, but easiest to learn. Mostly heard at latin dance clubs to very fast latin music. A dancing version of marching with added hip swings.

Swing - A rhythmical and swinging dance which was influenced by the Boogie, Rock & Roll, African/American Swing and the Lindyhop. The roots of the Jive are in New York's Harlem. It is the fastest of the Latin dances and should show lots of kicks and flicks and twirling of the woman. Although on first impression it might look like the feet are all over the place in every direction, the feet/legs should actually be under the body and the knees should always be close together.

Rumba - A dance that tells the story of love and eroticism between a man and a woman. The Rumba relies on the age-old premise of the lady trying to conquer the gentleman by means of her womanly charms. Incorporating all the elements of teasing and withdrawal, it is considered the most sensual of the Latin dances.

Samba - An all-out party dance with origins from Brazil's Rio Carnival. It is made up of many different South American dances incorporated into one. It is very rhythmical with lots of hip action. Walking Samba steps and side steps are the basic components of this dance. The major characteristic of the Samba is the vertical bounce action. Steps are taken using the ball of the foot. The accomplished dancer is made to look effortless and carefree with knee action, body sway and "pendulum motion."

Tango - The gauchos (cowboys) of Argentina wore chaps that hardened from the foam and sweat of the horse's body, causing them to walk with flexed knees. At night they would go to crowded night clubs and ask ladies of the night to dance but since the gaucho hadn't showered, the lady would dance in the crook of the man's right arm, holding her head back. Her right hand was held low on his left hip, close to his pocket, looking for a payment for dancing with him. No rise and fall in the steps. This should be a very level, flat dance. The legs are therefore always slightly flexed (i.e. the knees should be slightly bent at all times).

Hustle - popular dance most widely known with disco music, but can be used with current music as well. A fast dance with lots of spins and turning motions.