Stylized modern dance. Dancing as a sport: choosing the right direction

A person uses oral and written language to express thoughts and feelings. But there are other ways to express yourself. One of the options for conveying experiences is dance. Through body movements accompanied by music or rhythm, a person shares his emotional state. Due to the variety of styles, there is a need to consider a list of dance styles and movements.

Everyone who studies dance theme, faces the question of what styles and trends exist. For a holistic understanding of what dance movements there are, it is necessary to consider dance from a retrospective point of view.

Choreographic art has very ancient origins. Initially, the movements contained exclusively sacred meaning. Rhythmic movements served to achieve a specific goal.

People tried to make it rain or show interest in opposite sex. Over time, the dance acquired greater beauty and sophistication. The importance of musical accompaniment has increased.

The choreographic image of a particular nationality had characteristic features. Colorfulness was determined not only by movements, but also by unusual rhythmic sketches.

Each era has its own characteristics current styles dancing. Quite difficult to find in everyday use folk choreography. It has been preserved in its original form only on stage. Popular trends of our time include a variety of street and club dances. The main thing that unites existing fashion trends is a new vision of body language.

Styles and directions

It is advisable to start studying the topic of dance styles and trends with a source such as Wikipedia. Among the dance styles, Wikipedia lists the following directions:

Acrobatic

Involves competition between competing athletes. Parameters for judging are technical skill and expressiveness of performance, taking into account the musical accompaniment.

The basis is particularly complex dance and acrobatic elements.

Ballet

The essence is a combination of movements in the form of a theatrical performance. The basis of the performance is the expression of the artist’s thoughts, emotions and feelings through plasticity, facial expressions, movements and gestures. The parameters for audience evaluation are expressiveness and grace. The target audience is the viewer and his reaction to what he saw.

Includes three categories: modern, romantic and classical. Basis for modern ballet- classical ballet direction. A characteristic feature is the absence of strict requirements and standards. The subcategories of modern ballet are contemporary, modern, postmodern and jazz-modern. The main requirement is the dancer's self-expression.

Ballroom

The target audience is the performing dancers themselves. Types of ballroom programs - standard and Latin. The standard includes tango, Viennese waltz, slow waltz, slow foxtrot, quickstep (or fast foxtrot). Latin includes rumba, samba, jive, cha-cha-cha, paso doble.

Required condition- paired performance of movements by a man and a woman. The ballroom movement includes ballroom sports (known as dance sports).

Historical

A general name for dance styles of past centuries present in the programs of modern dancers. The direction includes the Middle Ages, Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo, 19th and 20th centuries:

Medieval movements - estampi, sarabande, bergamasca, saltarello.
Renaissance - moreska, bass dances, cascades, country dances.
Baroque and Rococo - passier, minuet, bourre.
19th century - Krakowiak, waltz, polka.
20th century - foxtrot, tango, Lindy hall.

Folk (folklore)

The essence is a reflection of the traditions, character and customs of a certain nationality. Takes into account the rhythms, movements, and costumes characteristic of a particular area. The target audience is dancers and spectators. The basis of the movements is the imitation of animal behavior with the adoption of the movements of the labor process in humans.

Related props - household accessories, musical instruments, weapons. Folklore direction includes:

polka,
lezginka,
gypsy girl
Czardas and others.

Latin American

Includes Argentine tango, bachata, mambo, lambada, merengue, salsa, flamenco, bolero, capoeira. The basis of bachata is a pair performance. Capoeira - Brazilian martial arts, including acrobatic elements and leg swings to musical accompaniment.

The essence of flamenco is a combination of hand clapping and foot stomping using castanets.

Ritual

Original meaning - transfer sacred meaning, rather than obtaining practical benefits. Percussion instruments were used as musical accompaniment.

There are several other common directions:

Street. Scope of occurrence - dance parties, streets, schoolyards, parks, nightclubs. The essence is mass recreation within the city. The basis is an improvisational element combined with social interaction between dancers and the audience. Currents - popping, hip-hop, locking, breakdancing.
Erotic. The main parameters for assessment are plasticity, expressiveness, self-expression. Currents are striptease and belly dancing.
Variety. The essence is a stage performance. A special feature is a short performance in the form of a miniature.
Swing. The basis is West African and African American traditions. The peculiarity is the rhythm of syncopation and jazz. Includes jive, Charleston, boogie-woogie, blues, rock and roll and other movements.
Modern (or contemporary). The essence is the denial of the traditions of classical ballet. Represents a type of stage choreographic performance.
Hustle. The essence is the performance of dance movements in pairs to the musical accompaniment of disco style. Includes jack-n-jill, freestyle, ladies hustle, sports hustle, show hustle, double hustle.

Styles for girls

The variety of trends prompts the question of which styles are suitable for girls.

Existing dance styles are in demand among both the stronger and fairer sexes. The main criteria for dancing for women and girls is learning plastic movements and losing excess weight. The combination of these parameters allows you to create the following list of currents for girls:

Belly dancing (or belly dancing). East direction, any woman can be a performer, regardless of age or size. Classes develop femininity, inner beauty and harmony, improve the figure and grace. It is considered extremely beneficial for health.
Strip plasticity refers to explicit dance styles, designed to eliminate stiffness and increase plasticity female body. Feature - there is no need to undress. Allows you to get rid of complexes and overcome internal fears.
Go go. Feature - during the performance, elements of eroticism are demonstrated without nudity of the dancer. It is similar to strip plastic, the difference is a greater degree of aggressiveness and tempo during the dance movements. A prerequisite is that the dancer has an ideal figure.
Pole dancing is a combination of acrobatic and gymnastic elements and is considered difficult dance art. Required good preparation, physical fitness and endurance.
Electrodance. A special feature is the musical accompaniment of electronic music. The condition is high frequency, speed and amplitude of movement execution.
Tectonic is considered a combination of hip-hop, techno, popping and electrodance, and includes movements with arms and legs, and jumping.

Note! The presented trends are not exclusively female. The division of dances is arbitrary and determined by the performer himself.

Popular destinations

New styles appear every day. It is important to understand that it is impossible to know all the names in the world and remember their descriptions. It's connected with rapid development dance art.

Despite the significant diversity, all styles have characteristic features. Due to this feature, it is possible to give them a brief description.

The list of current areas includes:

Booty dance ( Booty Dance). Performers - female audience. The peculiarity is frankness and eroticism in the performance. The origins are ancient Africa. The creators of the performance technique are strippers from New Orleans. Includes rotations, kicks and figure eights with the hips, and vibration with the buttocks.
Divided into Hip rolling, Rump Shaking (Booty Shake), Twerk (Twerking). The requirements for a dancer are developed muscles of the buttocks and legs. The advantages of the course are working out the back muscles, improving the shape of the female body. Clothing requirements - comfortable shorts or leggings with an emphasis on the buttocks and thighs, sneakers, accessories.
Break dance ( Break Dance) includes a lower and an upper break. It is considered a combination of elements of hip-hop and DupStep music. The technical element is torque from any point of support, including on the head. Feature: increased risk of injury. There is an acrobatic variety.
Club dance is common name for many flows, includes the direction of straight and broken rhythm.
The flow of a straight rhythm - musical accompaniment from Techno, Disco House, Progressive, the flow of a broken rhythm - hip-hop, breaks, break beat, R&B.
Contemporary Dance. The basis is elements of choreography. It is a combination of flexibility and technical freedom.
C-walk. The special feature is jumping and active swings to the musical accompaniment of a direct rhythm. The difficulty is the lack of significant space for mass performance.

Let's list a few more existing varieties:

Dance Mix,
Dancehall,
Disco
Dub step (Dup Step),
Electric Boogie,
Electro (Electro),
Electrobit,
Electrodance,
Frame up strip,
Free style.

Important! For a detailed study of styles, in addition to the compiled list, it is recommended to watch videos. The undoubted advantage of video is the ability to observe dance movements in a frame-by-frame perspective.

Useful video

Let's sum it up

Dance is considered not only the language of the body, but also of the soul. Centuries-old history its development led to the emergence of many trends. The variety of styles and trends allows the performer to convey the entire spectrum of emotions and passions.

An art such as dance began to develop at the dawn of humanity. Primitive tribes had their own special ritual dances, which were an important part of their traditions and existence. Their descendants, who began to build the first states, turned these gestures into part of the sovereign symbols. Thus, the first types of dances appeared, which to a greater extent testified to the origin of man, his roots. Today people dance everywhere, and their movements are no longer limited by any boundaries determined by the state. Well, let's take a closer look at what types of dances exist in certain parts of the planet and how they become popular all over the world.

What is dance

This term refers to a type of art in which artistic images are conveyed through plastic and rhythmic body movements. Any dance is inextricably linked with a certain music that suits its style. During this “ritual”, certain positions of the person’s body, the figures that he can show, and transitions from one pose to another are very important. Considering what types of dances there are in our time, it is easy to assume that there are simply countless numbers of such figures and movements. That is why they are divided into categories, which largely depend on the place of origin of a particular dance, as well as on its other features (pairs, group, single, etc.).

The history of the origins of dance art

Even during the existence of primitive tribes, the earliest types of dances arose. They were given names depending on the emotions they accompanied. For example, a tribe might try to bring rain after a long drought, and for this purpose a special ritual was composed, during which people moved in a certain way. Through rhythmic body movements, they thanked their gods, welcomed the birth of children and saw off their deceased ancestors. As an art form, dance was founded in the period of antiquity. At this time, special choreographic performances dedicated to the gods began to appear in Greece and Rome. At the same time, the very first oriental types of dances developed in Babylon, Assyria, the Persian kingdom and other Asian countries. In the Middle Ages, this art found itself beyond the line of legality due to the spiritual views of mankind. But with the advent of the Renaissance, it began to develop and improve again. In the 16th century, a type of choreography called ballet appeared, which soon became a separate species art.

Classics and its variations

Professional dancers training this art from an early age, they initially master classical dancing. Their types depend on which program is taken as a basis - European or Latin. These two subgroups are united by good old classical choreography, which has much in common with ballet. The bottom line is that rehearsals take place to classical music, the dancers do stretching, study positions, plie, pique and other choreographic techniques. In the future, the quality of the dance will depend precisely on the purity and correctness of all these movements.

European program

Slow waltz. This golden classic dance, which is always accompanied by appropriate music in three quarters. For each beat, dancers take three steps, with the first being the main one, the second determining the angle of rotation, and the third being an auxiliary one, allowing the weight to be transferred to the other leg.
Tango. It was originally an Argentine folk dance, but later became incredibly popular all over the world and moved into the category of European classics. Its essence lies in the fact that two partners move energetically and rhythmically to the appropriate music (it is also called tango).
Viennese Waltz. This is a kind of analogy to a simple waltz, only it is danced a little faster and more energetically.
Foxtrot. It's fast and bright dance, which is performed both in pairs and in group mode. It was invented by Harry Fox (hence the name) in the early 20th century, and its popularity has not waned since then.
Quickstep. This is the fastest dance from the European classics. It is performed in 4/4 rhythm, and there are as many as 50 bars per minute. It takes years of practice and grueling training to dance the foxtrot properly. It is important that all movements look easy, relaxed, and performed with incredible precision.

Latin American program

Will be listed here popular types dances that today often go beyond the classics. Based on them, a wide variety of variations are created to simplify the choreography and make these dances accessible to everyone.

Samba. A Brazilian dance that arose from the fusion of African and Portuguese traditions. It is danced in 2/4 time signature, with up to 54 bars per minute. IN classic version performed to the beat of drums or other Latin percussion instruments.
Cha-cha-cha. Characterized by much slower choreography. The time signature is 4/4, there are 30 bars per minute. The dance is most popular in Cuba, where it originated in the 20s last century. Today it is included in the classical dance program.
Rumba. The slowest and most intimate dance, which is always performed in pairs. Accuracy is not important here, as in other types of choreography. It is only important that the partners’ poses are very beautiful, that they form unique figures, and at the same time, each of their movements should be as flexible as possible.
Paso Doble. This dance has its roots in Spanish bullfighting. Here the partner often portrays a bullfighter, and his partner - a cloak. The essence of the choreography is the double step (hence the name).
Jive. African-American choreography, which also arose in the 20th century and became widespread in the United States. Jive is danced in swing mode, but at the same time it is very different from its modern analogue of the same name. Time signature - 4/4, number of beats per minute - 44.

Ballet

All currently existing types of dance are based on ballet to one degree or another. This art officially separated from general choreography in the 17th century, when the first French ballet school. What are the features of ballet? Here the choreography is inextricably linked with the music and facial expressions of the performers. As a rule, each production has a specific script, which is why it is often called a mini-play. True, in some cases there are also “unscripted” ballets, where dancers simply demonstrate their incomparable and precise skills. Ballet is divided into three categories: romantic, classical and modern. The first is always a mini-play on a love theme ("Romeo and Juliet", "Carmen", etc.). The classic one can personify any plot (for example, “The Nutcracker”), but its important element is choreography based on acrobatics and excellent plasticity. Modern ballet includes different types of dances. There are elements of jive, Latin choreography, and classical music. Distinctive feature is that everyone dances in pointe shoes.

Modern choreography

Nowadays, modern types of dances are popular all over the world, regardless of traditions and religion. Their names are known to everyone, and at the same time almost everyone can learn to perform them. Such body movements do not require special stretching, preparation or natural plasticity. The main thing is to join the rhythm and become one with the music. Let us immediately note that all the dances that will be listed below are the basis for the so-called “club choreography”. These movements are quickly learned and mixed by modern youth, resulting in a unique mix that can be seen in any nightclub in any city in the world.

Modern dance

Tectonic. It arose in the 21st century on the basis of jumpstyle, hip-hop, popping, techno style, etc. Always dancing to fast electronic music.
Strip dance. This is the basis of any striptease, in other words, a dance that may involve further undressing. The essence lies in plastic movements, and also often in interaction with other objects. This is how the famous pool dance, lap dance, etc. were born.
Go go. Erotic dance that does not involve undressing. Aimed at entertaining the crowd in the club. May contain any plastic elements that will correspond to the playing music.
Hakka. A dance that originated in the Netherlands, in hardcore circles. His movements are based on music in this style.
Jumpstyle. The dance, based on jumping, is one of the few modern ones that is danced in pairs. But at the same time, it has a peculiarity - partners should not touch each other.
D'n'B Step. This is exclusively an attribute of the drum and bass style. Choreography always depends on the rhythm and tempo of the music.
Shuffle. The dance originated in Australia and is based on jazz. All movements, in particular the steps characteristic of this style, are performed to electronic fast music at a faster pace.

Based on the plot of the movie “Step Up”...

After the first part of this wonderful film was released, young people actively began to study all kinds of street dances, which are characterized by freestyle and at the same time incredible plasticity and precision of movements. Let us list their main types, which have already become “street classics”:

Hip-hop. This is a whole cultural movement that originated in the 70s in New York among representatives of the working class. It covers not only unique choreography, but also slang, fashion, behavior and other areas of life. Within the hip-hop culture, there are a wide variety of dance types, more or less difficult to perform. This includes breaking, DJing, MCing, club hip-hop and much more.
Breakdancing, also called b-boying. Initially, it was part of hip-hop culture, and then, due to its uniqueness, it became a separate dance.
Crip Walk. A dance that originated in Los Angeles. Characterized by steps that are performed in the spirit of improvisation, at a very fast pace.
Popping. The dance is based on the rapid contraction and relaxation of muscles, due to which the human body shudders. It is important to observe certain positions and postures in which such movements look most impressive.

In the spirit of folk traditions

In each state, in addition to the flag and anthem, there is another, no less important attribute - dance. Each nation is characterized by its own movements, its own rhythms and tempos that have developed historically. Based on the characteristics of the choreography, you can easily determine what nationality a person is and what country he represents. Such performances are performed mainly in a group, but there are some exceptions when only two partners perform. Now we will look at the types of folk dances that are the most popular all over the world. By the way, some of them became the basis of classical choreography, and some served as an excellent start for the development of street dancing.

Dances of the peoples of the world

Attan - official folk dance Afghanistan. It is also performed by many neighboring peoples in various variations.
Hopak - dance of the peoples of Ukraine. Always performed in national costumes, in a very fast and energetic rhythm. It is characterized by jogging, squats, jumping and other active body movements.
Trepak is a native Russian dance, which is also common in Ukraine. It is always performed in a bipartite meter, and is accompanied by fractional steps and stamping.
Zika is a famous Chechen dance performed exclusively by men. As a rule, it is an accompanying element for important religious events.
Krakowiak is the most famous Polish dance. Performed in a fast rhythm, always with a straight back.
Round dance. A dance-game that was previously popular among many nations. The rules are different everywhere, but the point is that people take part in the round dance. great amount of people.
Lezginka is the most famous choreographic performance in the Caucasus. It is danced by Chechens, Armenians, Georgians, Azerbaijanis and many other peoples.

Types of oriental dances

In the east, the art of dance had a completely different development than in the countries of Europe and America. Men here always performed group mini-performances that accompanied some important events. A woman's dance is a kind of sacrament. A wife can dance only for her husband, and alone. This choreographic culture has been widespread for centuries throughout Western Asia, but in each country it has its own characteristics. Therefore, now we will look at what types of dances exist in this or that Eastern state and how they are characteristic.

Turkish. They are always performed in bright costumes, accompanied by fast music. They are characterized by rhythmic movements, very high plasticity and even acrobatics.
Egyptian. This is the most modest oriental choreography. The costumes are restrained, as are the movements, and the music is slow and measured. There is no place for frivolous body movements in Egyptian dances - this is considered debauchery.
Arabic. This is real scope for improvisation and variation. If you know what types of dances there are in the East and how they are performed, you can put all the techniques and techniques together, and you will get an excellent performance in the Arabic style.
Lebanese. The most unique and unusual. They combine elements of Turkish and Egyptian choreography. Therefore, fast and rhythmic movements alternate with slow and measured ones. The action is also characterized by the use of foreign objects (cymbals, canes, etc.).
Persian dance consists of graceful movements that mainly involve the arms, head and long hair.

How did belly dancing come about?

Almost all women in the world dream of mastering this choreographic style, but only a few master it perfectly. Many attribute its origins to the Middle East, but in fact the dance originated in India. Even before the birth of Christ, this custom was transferred from their homeland by the gypsies to Egypt, where it became popular. Various types of belly dancing began to emerge there, which very soon spread throughout the Middle East. Well, let's look at which of them are now the most famous:

Dance with the snake. It requires a combination of flexibility and courage, as well as the ability to handle this animal.
Dance with fire. During the performance, torches, candles, lamps with essential oils and much more can be used that glorifies the cult of fire.
Dance with cymbals. This hand percussion instrument is a relative of the Spanish castanets. Performing rhythmic movements, the dancer accompanies herself.
Raqs el-Sharqi is a belly dance that involves the area from the navel to the hips.
Raqs el-Shamadam is a performance in which a woman dances with a candelabra on her head. Very popular in Egypt.

Types of sports dances

Sports dancing is a kind of analogue of classical ballroom choreography. The difference is that dancers are trained according to a more strict and intensive program, with special emphasis on stretching, precision of movements, and speed of their execution. An important component of any sports dance It is not the beauty of the performance, but the technicality of performing all the movements. In general, this subgroup consists of choreographic productions known to us, among which there are standard European and Latin programs.

Conclusion

We looked at what types of dances exist in different countries and determined their styles and characteristics. As it turned out, each choreographic production has its own tempo, rhythm, and character of execution. Also, many dances cannot exist without facial expressions, certain costumes, style and even the mood of those who perform them. Therefore, if you are going to master this art, it is important to initially decide which style you like to dance in, and which of them is most suitable for you in terms of capabilities and even the structural features of your figure. And in the future, for self-improvement, you will only need diligence and practice. Go for it!

There is no great chance that you will be invited to a social ball; you are much more likely to end up at a club or at a party of friends in another democratic setting.

The ability to dance will come in handy everywhere. Having mastered the technique, you will feel confident, increase self-esteem, improve your posture and figure, change internally, and feel incomparable pleasure. Find out which modern dances for girls are most popular and where to learn fashionable ones dance moves.

Dance as a useful hobby

Control of one's body in dance is given to almost all people, but many are prevented from realizing themselves by excessive modesty. If you are shy in company and refuse men who invite you to dance, restructure yourself internally. Especially modest girls can try to learn how to dance modern dances at home by turning on their favorite music and improvising in front of a mirror.

This hobby is suitable for women of all ages, weights and body types. Don't be shy if you have a non-standard figure, curvy hips, large breasts or a protruding tummy.

Dancing is good not only for your mood and beauty, but also for good health. Thanks to dance movements, blood flow increases, lung function improves, and the heart strengthens. After regular exercise, posture improves, coordination of movements and the functioning of the vestibular apparatus are normalized.

For every girl and woman there is suitable look modern dance, in which it is easy to turn disadvantages into advantages. By dancing regularly, girls become more feminine, their gait and facial movements change. Choreography teaches the art of seduction and coquetry, playfulness and a confident look. At the same time, dancers know how to keep their distance and are never toys in the hands of a man.

Where to learn to dance quickly and beautifully

Eat two ways to learn to dance– independently and under the guidance of a teacher. The first option is ideal for those who once studied choreography, but now just want to master a new style. The second guarantees success for everyone.

Homeschooling and its features

For independent training, girls can use video lessons on modern dance, read books on choreography, watch films, study theory in magazines.

It is important not to neglect the recommendations of the virtual choreographer, but to strictly follow them. Even more important is to find good courses and self-study materials. It’s better to choose a few, and only then weed out the extra ones, understanding the nuances.

To begin with, of course, you can do without a suit, but a suit helps you get in the right mood and immediately accustoms you to movements taking into account clothing. You definitely need suitable music; training lessons and a description of the dance will help you choose it.

For beginners, it is better to choose directions in which improvisation is allowed. As a rule, these are “natives” from street styles, they do not require special preparation, costumes or a partner. Having mastered the technique of free dance styles, you will feel confident on the dance floor.

More difficult to master classic styles, in which you need to learn the position of the body, head, arms, basic positions and steps. Such areas require classes with a teacher at home or at school.

Training in schools and studios

If you are used to taking everything seriously and want to be not only a participant, but also the central link of the dance floor, then it is better to enroll in a modern dance school.

Advantages of studying in the studio:

Experienced teachers in good schools– professional choreographers.
No need to think about where to find a partner or team for pairs and group dances.
Professional dance hall with mirrors, the right music.
A special atmosphere and new friends with similar interests.
For girls, this is an opportunity to find a partner not only for a waltz, but for life.

To find out what services such schools provide, we called the studio Fashion Dance, working in Moscow, and asked a few questions.

What dance styles can you teach a beginner?

We have a lot of styles, ranging from waltz and tango, including ballroom and modern, fashionable Latin American and oriental dances, to go-go and erotic styles for special occasions.

So what, you can teach any girl to dance?

For each client we find the most suitable style for him, taking into account personal data and wishes. There are no people who do not know how to dance, this is given to man by nature, the main thing is to open up correctly.

What wishes do people come to you with most often?

The most popular trend among boys and young girls is modern dancing, older women want to learn belly dancing, and ladies who have free time in retirement are drawn to the waltz.

The global problem of modern youth is wedding. We have opened a course especially for newlyweds pre-wedding preparation, in which we stage a dance of the bride and groom, father and daughter, friends and girlfriends.

What do you need to start training and how much does it cost?

First you need to come to us and express your wishes. We help you navigate names and styles, and together we select a group and teacher. Everything else is individual, including prices. We have a lot of discount programs. Better go to the dance school website Fashion Dance, and if it’s not clear, call us, we’ll be happy to tell you everything!

Types of modern dances for beginners

It is easiest for beginners to master modern dance styles, which do not have clear rules of choreography. Small flaws here are practically unnoticeable; they are taken for improvisation and the girl’s personal highlights.

Free dance - the choice of dreamers

Free dance, also known as rhythmic or plastic dance, appeared at the beginning of the last century. The basis of this dance style is ballet, diluted with free movements from ordinary life. The main point This direction is emancipation, energy, interaction with the environment.

In free dancing to modern music improvisation, spontaneity, and creativity are encouraged. Perhaps this the best choice for beginners, since there are no strict rules of choreography and technique, but there is the possibility of self-expression.

Girls can perform free dances either alone or in pairs with a man. The absence of strict boundaries is a guarantee that you will not look like a bad dancer, because everyone can come up with their own moves.

Modernity as the choice of the free

Modernism arose against the backdrop of the denial of traditional ballet techniques. His credo is the rejection of canons and conventions, the embodiment new choreography. Modernity came to modern girls from the twentieth century. One of the founders of the movement was Isadora Duncan. Another dancer who contributed to the development and popularity of the style is Mary Wigman, who abandoned traditional beautiful movements in favor of unusual and even shocking ones.

Modern dance is danced barefoot, its main choreographer is nature. The technique cannot be called complex; the main component of success is the dancer’s emotionality. Sensuality in every movement is a guarantee of your own pleasure and the delight of others.

Electro - youth direction

Electro is one of the most popular destinations on the list modern dance for girls, accessible for beginners. In essence, this is a street dance, born in the middle of the last century to club music. Electro is danced more with the hands than with the body, so it is ideal suitable for beginners dancers and people with poor physical fitness.

There are two directions:

Milky Way – calm movements, somewhat similar to the performance of an actor on stage. Each dancer’s performance is a small performance with a beginning and an ending. It is better to start learning to dance electro with this type, then moving on to a more complex direction.
Electro – active movements that smoothly transform into each other at high speed. The main thing here is to feel the music and understand what they are singing about in the song, so that the movements do not contradict the meaning.

Tectonics – dynamics and energy

Tectonic is another modern dance direction for girls and boys. Tectonic combines dance elements of techno, hip-hop, popping, and locking. True fans adhere to a certain style of clothing - skinny jeans, tight T-shirts, basketball-style sneakers. They are distinguished by futuristic hairstyles with gothic elements.

However, there are no strict requirements; you can dance tectonics in any clothes and with any hairstyle. Not only tight-fitting, but also loose clothing is allowed - hoodies, shorts, tops. Best suited for movement flat shoes.

It is customary to distinguish two groups of tectonics – hard and soft. Each group includes several types of dance. It is difficult to learn dance elements on your own; it is better to do it in a group or with a teacher.

Breakdancing is a favorite of the flexible ones

Breakdancing is a dance for modern girls, skilled in acrobatics, which originated in the seventies of the last century. Breakdancing literally hit the masses with a wave in 1984 after the release of the film Beat Street. They began to dance it at discos, clubs and even at school parties.

Break is divided into two large groups– lower and upper:

The top break is similar to a popular disco dance. It is characterized by sharp clutching movements of the arms, legs and the whole body. The top break group includes many stylistic trends.
Low break dancing is more complex and filling acrobatic stunts. It is danced on the floor and requires physical fitness and strength to hold the body up. This type of modern dance is more suitable for boys than girls.

Break clothes need to be as comfortable and convenient as possible. Girls - b-girls, breakdancing in a beautiful sportswear famous brands to look stylish and attractive. WITH short hair no problem, but those with long hair need to take care that their hair does not interfere with their movements.

Hip-Hop – mischievous and rhythmic

Hip-Hop originated among the working class of New York in the mid-seventies. Within a few years it became part of youth culture in many countries. In the late nineties, Hip-Hop turned out to be a full-fledged component music industry. Nowadays, this trend is distinguished as a fashionable subculture; it is a popular style that has become a lifestyle for some.

Hip-hop dances to rhythmic music, including rap. The rhythm, as a rule, is set by DJs, and dancers need to have time to hear the music and think through movements to it.

Contempo - flight of the soul

Contempo successfully combines several dance styles. It attracts girls with its simplicity of movements and the ability to improvise. The founders of contemporary dance, including Isadora Duncan, did everything so that everyone could master this dance.

Contempo training should begin with the preparation of muscles, joints and ligaments. The essence is alternating tense muscles with sharp relaxation. Contempo is built on the contrast of falls and rises, characterizing contradiction and balance. It is better to dance barefoot, so that nothing interferes with freedom.

Hakka - the choice of modern girls

Hakka appeared in the eighties of the twentieth century, thanks to musical direction hardcore The energetic movements of this distinctively named modern dance are driven by the bass beats of heavy rock. This is one of the most emotional dance styles, requiring endurance and athletic training from girls.

During training, you can even lose weight, as a lot of energy is spent and calories are burned. Hakka strengthens the leg muscles, pumps up the thighs and makes the lower body more toned and slender.

At the same time, Hakku is easy for beginners to learn; it has few basic elements, and everything else is improvisation that fits within the framework of the style.

Go-Go - for disco stars

Go-Go originated in the mid-sixties of the last century; initially it was one of the ways to entertain visitors in entertainment venues, festivals, clubs, and discos. Go-Go came to Russia only in the nineties; it was actively used not only in clubs and discos, but also to attract attention to any public events.

There is no need to consider Go-Go as something obscene, a dancing woman is always remains inaccessible. In the early days of Go-Go, dancers were even hung in cages so that men would not even think about approaching them.

The ability to dance Go-Go is necessary for self-confident girls who love to attract attention and be in the center of events. Go-Go will be useful in a club or disco, it will teach you to catch the rhythm, control your warmth, play and improvise.

The best dance styles for women

For women who look at dance as a hobby and an opportunity for self-realization, there are many modern trends. You need to start from your existing skills and initial physical training. Gradually, the bar can be raised, moving on to more complex styles.

Oriental and Indian dances for beginners

Oriental charm will never go out of fashion, because the spirit of the East leaves no one indifferent. All are exclusively female, they are playful and light. Modern types are ideal for girls and women who cannot be classified as skinny - curvy shapes and even a protruding tummy are welcome. After just a few lessons, the plump girls forget about their complexes and present them as their advantages.

List of popular couple dances

Pair dancing, both ballroom and modern, helps girls quickly find mutual language with men, they are taught to be paired, dominate and submit, depending on the situation. For shy girls and women, this is the best way to get rid of excessive modesty and awkwardness from a man’s touch.

The most popular modern couple dances:

Waltz is a slow one that does not lose popularity and is constantly evolving. The ability to dance a waltz is a sign of good form.
Tango is an ancient Argentine dance, which is still called modern. Today tango is divided into many types: Argentinean, Uruguayan, ballroom, Finnish and others.
Balboa - very close contact with the partner, the bodies should be pressed closely together so that there is no gap. There are not many movements, so this modern dance is great for beginners.
Rock and roll - rhythmic couples dance with relaxed movements. Rock and roll requires acrobatic skills and long training, it is better to train with one partner as it requires a lot of support at a fast pace.
Flamenco is a vibrant cocktail of Moroccan, Spanish and gypsy motifs, full of improvisation and mystery.
Paso Doble – dance style, which resembles a Spanish bullfight. The man plays a bullfighter, and the girl plays a cloak or mulet in the hands of a matador.
Rumba is a dramatic dance of love to the rhythms of African drums overlaid with clave rhythms. Modern rubma is divided into ballroom, Cuban, African and gypsy.

When choosing a dance, focus on initial training, posture, endurance, and the functioning of the vestibular apparatus. This doesn’t mean that you have to limit yourself to limits, you just need to start small. You may need to do or first, and only then move on to dance exercises.

The list and descriptions of modern dances were prepared with the participation of Fashion Dance Schools. Especially for the online magazine “Women’s Hobbies”.

An incendiary samba, an elegant waltz or a mesmerizing belly dance - any of these dances will have a positive effect on the condition of the muscles, and an elastic tummy is not a myth, but a reality. The thing is that there are cortisol receptors in the abdominal area, and it is this hormone that helps actively burn fat. Intensive exercise stress stimulates the production of cortisol in the body, and dancing, according to researchers, actively burns accumulated fat in the abdominal area.

Choosing a dance direction

If we're talking about not about mindless trampling to the music, but about serious dance classes with a teacher, then choosing one thing can be very difficult. All dance directions attractive in their own way, but which one is right for you? Dance experts advise making your choice based on your temperament.

The famous psychologist Carl Jung, among other things, studied the influence that choreography has on people. Based on the results of his research, he divided all the dances that existed at that time into two types: extroverted and introverted.

Extroverted dances are free and inharmonious; with the help of such dances a person is freed from negative emotions and suffering, such dances are used as therapy for severe affects.

Introverted dances, as opposed to extroverted ones, are clear and harmonious, they are distinguished by the dancer’s special joy and love of life, and with their help positive emotions are expressed.

Dancing for choleric people

The nature of choleric people is such that they behave unrestrainedly and can be hot-tempered. Their movements are sharp and impetuous, and their speech is characterized by passion and confused intonations. Cholerics are characterized by sudden mood swings and straightforwardness in relationships with others.

Club dancing is perfect for such emotionally unstable individuals. Various rhythms and movements will help reveal all the body's abilities. Hip-hop, RnB shuffle, funk, Go-go dance - these are all club dances that will help a choleric person show his fickle nature and throw out raging emotions.

Hip-hop (video)

Dancing for phlegmatic people

The behavior of phlegmatic people is measured, such people are distinguished by icy calm and leisurelyness, it is difficult to anger them. Phlegmatic people are consistent in their work and are highly efficient.

Ideal for phlegmatic people would be Folk dance, which includes Irish dances, and flamenco, and belly dancing, and Russian folk dances. Exactly these dance directions will help phlegmatic natures to open up better; such people pass through themselves all the traditions and meaning inherent in the dance. Despite their outward restraint, phlegmatic people are excellent dancers; it is not difficult for them to monitor the position of their arms and legs in the dance; they have excellent coordination. But you shouldn’t be scattered between several dances; for serious classes, it’s enough to choose one type.

Irish dancing (video)

Dancing for the melancholic

Shyness and uncertainty, secrecy and the desire for loneliness - these are the distinctive character traits of melancholic people. They are very easy to offend, and the slightest failures cause them to withdraw into themselves and become self-reproachful.

For such vulnerable natures the best option will become classical ballet, body ballet. Body ballet is modern version classical dance, adapted for classes in the fitness center. All types of classical dance have an excellent effect on posture, promote weight loss, and benefit the respiratory system.

This style of dance helps to gain self-confidence, relieves attacks of melancholy and depression, and normalizes the functioning of the nervous system.

Body ballet (video)

Dancing for sanguine people

Fun until you drop, sociability, love of life - this is the life credo of sanguine people. Such people are not inclined to despair in the face of difficulties and failures; they easily join even unfamiliar companies, at the same time they are responsive and distinguished by their high efficiency and their interest in the work.

For such extraordinary and bright people Latin American dances are perfect: rumba, salsa, samba, cha-cha-cha. Incendiary and vibrant dances are ideal for these emotional natures.

Salsa (video)

What is dance

The history of the origins of dance art

Classics and its variations

Professional dancers, learning this art from an early age, initially master classical dances. Their types depend on which program is taken as a basis - European or Latin. These two subgroups are united by good old classical choreography, which has much in common with ballet. The bottom line is that rehearsals take place to classical music, the dancers do stretching, study positions, plie, pique and other choreographic techniques. In the future, the quality of the dance will depend precisely on the purity and correctness of all these movements.

European program

Slow waltz. This is a golden dance classic, which is always accompanied by appropriate music in three quarters. For each beat, dancers take three steps, with the first being the main one, the second determining the angle of rotation, and the third being an auxiliary one, allowing the weight to be transferred to the other leg.
Tango. It was originally an Argentine folk dance, but later became incredibly popular all over the world and moved into the category of European classics. Its essence lies in the fact that two partners move energetically and rhythmically to the appropriate music (it is also called tango).
Viennese Waltz. This is a kind of analogy to a simple waltz, only it is danced a little faster and more energetically.
Foxtrot. This is a fast and vibrant dance that is performed both in pairs and in groups. It was invented by Harry Fox (hence the name) in the early 20th century, and its popularity has not waned since then.
Quickstep. This is the fastest dance from the European classics. It is performed in 4/4 rhythm, and there are as many as 50 bars per minute. It takes years of practice and grueling training to dance the foxtrot properly. It is important that all movements look easy, relaxed, and performed with incredible precision.

Latin American program

Popular types of dances that today often go beyond the classics will be listed here. Based on them, a wide variety of variations are created to simplify the choreography and make these dances accessible to everyone.

Samba. A Brazilian dance that arose from the fusion of African and Portuguese traditions. It is danced in 2/4 time signature, with up to 54 bars per minute. In the classical version, it is performed to the beat of drums or other Latin percussion instruments.
Cha-cha-cha. Characterized by much slower choreography. The time signature is 4/4, there are 30 bars per minute. The dance is most popular in Cuba, where it originated in the 20s of the last century. Today it is included in the classical dance program.
Rumba. The slowest and most intimate dance, which is always performed in pairs. Accuracy is not important here, as in other types of choreography. It is only important that the partners’ poses are very beautiful, that they form unique figures, and at the same time, each of their movements should be as flexible as possible.
Paso Doble. This dance has its roots in Spanish bullfighting. Here the partner often portrays a bullfighter, and his partner - a cloak. The essence of the choreography is the double step (hence the name).
Jive. African-American choreography, which also arose in the 20th century and became widespread in the United States. Jive is danced in swing mode, but at the same time it is very different from its modern analogue of the same name. Time signature - 4/4, number of beats per minute - 44.

Ballet

All currently existing types of dance are based on ballet to one degree or another. This art officially separated from general choreography in the 17th century, when the first French ballet school emerged. What are the features of ballet? Here the choreography is inextricably linked with the music and facial expressions of the performers. As a rule, each production has a specific script, which is why it is often called a mini-play. True, in some cases there are also “unscripted” ballets, where dancers simply demonstrate their incomparable and precise skills. Ballet is divided into three categories: romantic, classical and modern. The first is always a mini-play on a love theme ("Romeo and Juliet", "Carmen", etc.). The classic one can personify any plot (for example, “The Nutcracker”), but its important element is choreography based on acrobatics and excellent plasticity. Modern ballet includes different types of dances. There are elements of jive, Latin choreography, and classical music. A distinctive feature is that everyone dances in pointe shoes.

Modern choreography

Modern dance

Tectonic. It arose in the 21st century on the basis of jumpstyle, hip-hop, popping, techno style, etc. Always dancing to fast electronic music.
Strip dance. This is the basis of any striptease, in other words, a dance that may involve further undressing. The essence lies in plastic movements, and also often in interaction with other objects. This is how the famous pool dance, lap dance, etc. were born.
Go go. Erotic dance that does not involve undressing. Aimed at entertaining the crowd in the club. May contain any plastic elements that will correspond to the playing music.
Hakka. A dance that originated in the Netherlands, in hardcore circles. His movements are based on music in this style.
Jumpstyle. The dance, based on jumping, is one of the few modern ones that is danced in pairs. But at the same time, it has a peculiarity - partners should not touch each other.
D'n'B Step. This is exclusively an attribute of the drum and bass style. Choreography always depends on the rhythm and tempo of the music.
Shuffle. The dance originated in Australia and is based on jazz. All movements, in particular the steps characteristic of this style, are performed to electronic fast music at a faster tempo.

Based on the plot of the movie “Step Up”...

Hip-hop. This is a whole cultural movement that originated in the 70s in New York among representatives of the working class. It covers not only unique choreography, but also slang, fashion, behavior and other areas of life. Within the hip-hop culture, there are a wide variety of dance types, more or less difficult to perform. This includes breaking, DJing, MCing, club hip-hop and much more.
Breakdancing, also called b-boying. Initially, it was part of hip-hop culture, and then, due to its uniqueness, it became a separate dance.
Crip Walk. A dance that originated in Los Angeles. Characterized by steps that are performed in the spirit of improvisation, at a very fast pace.
Popping. The dance is based on the rapid contraction and relaxation of muscles, due to which the human body shudders. It is important to observe certain positions and postures in which such movements look most impressive.

In the spirit of folk traditions

In each state, in addition to the flag and anthem, there is another, no less important attribute - dance. Each nation is characterized by its own movements, its own rhythms and tempos, which have developed historically. Based on the characteristics of the choreography, you can easily determine what nationality a person is and what country he represents. Such performances are performed mainly in a group, but there are some exceptions when only two partners perform. Now we will look at the types of folk dances that are the most popular all over the world. By the way, some of them became the basis of classical choreography, and some served as an excellent start for the development of street dancing.

Dances of the peoples of the world

Attan is the official folk dance of Afghanistan. It is also performed by many neighboring peoples in various variations.
Hopak - dance of the peoples of Ukraine. It is always performed in national costumes, in a very fast and energetic rhythm. It is characterized by jogging, squats, jumping and other active body movements.
Trepak is a native Russian dance, which is also common in Ukraine. It is always performed in a bipartite meter, and is accompanied by fractional steps and stamping.
Zika is a famous Chechen dance performed exclusively by men. As a rule, it is an accompanying element for important religious events.
Krakowiak is the most famous Polish dance. Performed in a fast rhythm, always with a straight back.
Round dance. A dance-game that was previously popular among many nations. The rules are different everywhere, but the point is that a huge number of people take part in the round dance.
Lezginka is the most famous choreographic performance in the Caucasus. It is danced by Chechens, Armenians, Georgians, Azerbaijanis and many other peoples.

Types of oriental dances

Turkish. They are always performed in bright costumes, accompanied by fast music. They are characterized by rhythmic movements, very high plasticity and even acrobatics.
Egyptian. This is the most modest oriental choreography. The costumes are restrained, as are the movements, and the music is slow and measured. There is no place for frivolous body movements in Egyptian dances - this is considered debauchery.
Arabic. This is real scope for improvisation and variation. If you know what types of dances there are in the East and how they are performed, you can put all the techniques and techniques together, and you will get an excellent performance in the Arabic style.
Lebanese. The most unique and unusual. They combine elements of Turkish and Egyptian choreography. Therefore, fast and rhythmic movements alternate with slow and measured ones. The action is also characterized by the use of foreign objects (cymbals, canes, etc.).
Persian dance consists of graceful movements that mainly involve the arms, head and long hair.

How did belly dancing come about?

Dance with the snake. It requires a combination of flexibility and courage, as well as the ability to handle this animal.
Dance with fire. During the performance, torches, candles, lamps with essential oils and much more can be used that glorifies the cult of fire.
Dance with cymbals. This hand percussion instrument is a relative of the Spanish castanets. Performing rhythmic movements, the dancer accompanies herself.
Raqs el-Sharqi is a belly dance that involves the area from the navel to the hips.
Raqs el-Shamadam is a performance in which a woman dances with a candelabra on her head. Very popular in Egypt.

Types of sports dances

Sports dancing is a kind of analogue of classical ballroom choreography. The difference is that dancers are trained according to a more strict and intensive program, with special emphasis on stretching, precision of movements, and speed of their execution. An important component of any sports dance is not the beauty of the performance, but the technicality of performing all the movements. In general, this subgroup consists of choreographic productions known to us, among which there are standard European and Latin programs.