Is dancing a sport or art? There are certainly strong-minded folks on either end of that question, but we’re here to say that dancing can be both a sport and an art! Just because there are artistic components to dance doesn’t mean it’s not a sport.
When you understand the physical shape you need to be in and the skill it takes to be a great dancer, it becomes pretty obvious that dance is a sport. Unfortunately, some people choose not to see it that way.
Ballroom dance becoming an Olympic sport
Ballroom dance is not currently a sport in the Olympics, but there have been many efforts to change this. One of the first big accomplishments for dance supporters is the addition of DanceSport, the official name for competitive ballroom dance.
DanceSport is the term you will see when entering your first ballroom dance competition—it simply the term used for competitive ballroom dancing, as opposed to social dancing you might do at an event or party. If you’ve ever watched shows such as So You Think You Can Dance and World of Dance, you can see just how much discipline goes into competitive dancing, whether it’s ballroom or another style. It’s no coincidence our students and dancers everywhere have the same side effect—weight loss—when they begin a dancing program. It’s not easy to move on the beat every single time! Some might even say starting ballroom dance lessons is more effective than paying for a gym membership.
As times progresses, so does the chance for ballroom dancing to be included in the Olympics one day. DanceSport was actually in the running to be included in the Tokyo 2020 games, but alas, it was cute in the first round of decisions. That doesn’t mean all hope is lost, though! The next possibility for DanceSport to become an Olympic sport is the Paris games in 224—so keep your fingers crossed and keep showing people just how much dancers deserve this global stage just as much as ice skaters or other athletes.
How to prepare for dance competitions & dancing in the Olympics
When DanceSport becomes an Olympic game, you want to be ready. The classes at Arthur Murray New Jersey are designed to be personalized for each student—so no matter if you’re a beginner or a veteran with 20 years of experience, there is a place for you in the AMNJ studio. Our talented and committed instructors are passionate about helping all skill levels reach their highest ballroom dance potential, and if you’re hoping to train for an upcoming competition, AMNJ is the place to be.
Not only are our instructors experts in ballroom dance, but they’re also friendly. So, you’ll leave dance practice feeling rejuvenated and alive rather than beaten down and worn out. Even the studio owners are dance-lovers. We teach a variety of ballroom dances, from salsa to the tango, and there are quite a few best-suited for beginners as well.
There’s no better place to become a better—or Olympic-level—dancer than our Arthur Murray New Jersey studios. Find your nearest location here and claim your first dance lesson free of charge.
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