What is Dancesport?

What is Dancesport? Think “partner dancing at the most athletic and artistic level.”

Ballroom dancesport is an activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a dynamic and challenging activity that combines athleticism, artistry, and teamwork. While it is commonly associated with competitive dancing, it is important to note that not all ballroom dancesport participants compete. Many individuals enjoy the physical and mental benefits of ballroom dancesport without ever stepping onto a competition floor.

One of the greatest benefits of ballroom dancesport is its ability to improve physical health. Dancing is a full-body workout that can help to improve cardiovascular health, increase strength and flexibility, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. In ballroom dancesport, dancers learn to improvise a standardized syllabus into more complex movements and routines. Some routines will require great physical coordination, balance, and endurance, and others can be simple, elegant, playful and fun. The physical activity involved in this form of dance helps to improve overall fitness and health.

Beyond the physical benefits, ballroom dancesport also has significant mental health benefits. Dancing can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as improve cognitive function and memory. The mental focus required to learn and perform complex dance routines helps to improve concentration, attention, and memory skills.

Ballroom dancesport is also a social activity that provides opportunities to meet new people and build lasting friendships. Dancers often work in pairs or teams, which encourages cooperation, communication, and teamwork. But it is not always necessary to have a partner. Many ballroom dancesport classes offer group lessons where individuals can learn and practice their skills with other dancers.

It's important to note that you can start Ballroom Dancesport at any age. Whether you're a child, a teenager, an adult, or a senior, you can benefit from the physical and mental benefits of this activity. And if you're located in the Greater Cincinnati area, you have the added benefit of having a world-class professional, J. Patrick Clements, who is dedicated to sharing his expertise and passion with others. Clements is an accomplished ballroom dancer who has competed and trained at all levels of dancesport. He has trained with some of the most renowned coaches in the world and is known for his dynamic teaching style and his ability to inspire students of all levels.

Another benefit of ballroom dancesport is the opportunity to showcase talent and creativity. Dancers can express themselves through their choreography, costumes, and music choices, creating unique and memorable performances. Even if you never plan to compete, there are opportunities to perform and share your love of ballroom dancesport with others.

In conclusion, ballroom dancesport is an athletic and rewarding activity that offers numerous benefits for physical and mental health, social connection, and creativity. People of any age can start and enjoy this activity, whether you're a beginner or an experienced dancer. So why not give it a try and discover the joy and excitement of this captivating form of dance? And if you're located in the Greater Cincinnati area, be sure to check out J. Patrick Clements and take advantage of his talented expertise!

Did Arthur Murray Help Or Hurt The Industry?

Arthur Murray is a well-known figure in the ballroom dance industry in America. He founded the Arthur Murray Dance Studios franchise in 1912, which quickly became one of the most popular dance schools in the country. While opinions on Murray's impact on the industry may vary, here are some arguments for and against his influence:

Arguments for Arthur Murray's positive impact on the industry:

1. Popularization of ballroom dance: Arthur Murray's franchise helped to popularize ballroom dance in America, making it more accessible to people who may not have had exposure to it before. Through his schools, Murray introduced many Americans to ballroom dance, and helped to create a thriving dance culture in the US.

2. Standardization of teaching: Murray was a proponent of standardizing dance teaching methods, which helped to improve the quality of instruction and create consistency across different studios. He also developed a standardized syllabus for teaching ballroom dance, which helped to make it more accessible and easier to learn.

3. Entrepreneurial success: Murray's success as an entrepreneur helped to create opportunities for other dancers and instructors, and contributed to the growth of the ballroom dance industry as a whole. His franchising model provided a pathway for other instructors to open their own schools and create successful businesses.

Arguments against Arthur Murray's impact on the industry:

1. Simplification of dance: Some critics argue that Murray's standardized syllabus and teaching methods oversimplified ballroom dance, removing much of the nuance and complexity that makes it a rich and rewarding art form. They argue that this simplification may have contributed to a decline in the quality of instruction and a loss of interest in the dance form.

2. Commercialization of dance: Some critics argue that Murray's emphasis on franchising and business success may have contributed to a commercialization of dance, where the focus on profit and expansion took precedence over the art form itself. This may have contributed to a shift away from the artistic and cultural roots of ballroom dance.

3. Limitation of creativity: Murray's standardized syllabus and teaching methods may have limited the creativity and innovation of dance instructors and students, who were encouraged to focus on a set of predetermined steps and routines rather than exploring their own individual styles and approaches to dance.

In conclusion, while there are both positive and negative aspects to Arthur Murray's impact on the ballroom dance industry in America, his influence cannot be denied. His franchising model and standardized teaching methods helped to popularize and standardize ballroom dance, while his entrepreneurial success created opportunities for many other dancers and instructors. At the same time, some argue that his commercial focus and simplification of the dance may have had negative effects on the art form itself. Ultimately, the legacy of Arthur Murray remains a complex and contested issue in the ballroom dance community.

Written by:

J. Patrick Clements

Ballroom Popularity vs Ballet

There are several reasons why ballroom dance is not as popular as ballet:

1. Accessibility: Ballet is more accessible to children because it is typically offered at many dance schools and studios. Ballroom dance, on the other hand, is not as widely available, particularly in some regions or countries where it is not as popular.

2. Perception: Ballet is often seen as a more traditional and prestigious dance form, with a long history and established cultural significance. Ballroom dance, on the other hand, is often viewed as a more social or recreational activity, and may not be taken as seriously as ballet in some contexts.

3. Cost: Ballroom dance can be more expensive than ballet, as it often requires a partner and specialized attire, such as ballroom shoes and costumes. This can make it less accessible to some families or individuals who may not have the financial resources to participate.

4. Training: Ballroom dance requires a different set of skills and training than ballet, and may not be as familiar to dance teachers or instructors. As a result, it may not be as readily available or well-promoted as ballet in some dance schools or studios.

5. Media coverage: Ballet has often been the subject of popular media, such as films, documentaries, and TV shows, which have helped to raise its profile and increase its popularity. Ballroom dance, on the other hand, has not received the same level of media coverage or attention, which may have contributed to its relative lack of popularity.

Overall, while ballroom dance is a rich and rewarding dance form that offers many benefits, it may not be as popular as ballet due to factors such as accessibility, perception, cost, training, and media coverage. However, as interest in ballroom dance grows and more resources become available, it may become more widely recognized and appreciated in the future.

Here at the MBDC we believe that social dancing and ballroom dancing are different. While we have an abundance of social dancers, our focus is on athletic and artistic dancing.

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Written by:

J. Patrick Clements

Competition vs Rivalry in Ballroom Dancing

Competition Vs Rivalry in Ballroom Dancing

In competitive ballroom dancing, there is certainly a strong element of competition, as dancers compete against one another in various categories, such as style, level, and age range. However, the emphasis in ballroom dance competitions is generally on personal improvement and achievement, rather than on defeating one's rivals or engaging in negative behaviors.

Unlike in some other competitive contexts, such as sports or business, rivalry is generally not a major factor in competitive ballroom dancing. While dancers may have friendly rivalries with one another, the focus is typically on improving one's own skills and performance, rather than on undermining or defeating one's competitors.

This emphasis on personal improvement and achievement is reflected in the judging criteria for ballroom dance competitions, which typically prioritize technique, style, and musicality, rather than on "beating" one's rivals. Dancers are evaluated based on their own merits, rather than in comparison to their competitors, and success in ballroom dance competitions is often measured in terms of personal growth and achievement, rather than on the number of rivals one has defeated.

In conclusion, while competition is certainly a significant aspect of competitive ballroom dancing, rivalry is generally not a major factor. The emphasis is typically on personal improvement and achievement, rather than on defeating one's rivals or engaging in negative behaviors.

Written by:

J. Patrick Clements

Ballroom vs Ballet, which is better for my child?

Ballroom vs Ballet 

What is best for my child?

Ballroom dance and ballet are both wonderful forms of dance that offer many benefits to children. However, ballroom dance has some advantages that make it a better option for children than ballet.

One of the most significant benefits of ballroom dance is that it is a social activity. While ballet is often taught in a solo format, ballroom dance is typically taught in pairs or groups. This means that children who learn ballroom dance are not only learning to dance but also developing social skills such as teamwork, communication, and respect for others, and real-time problem solving. These skills can be valuable throughout their lives.

Another advantage of ballroom dance is that it is more accessible to children of all body types. Ballet is known for its strict aesthetic standards, which can be challenging for children who do not fit the traditional mold of a ballet dancer. In contrast, ballroom dance celebrates a variety of body types and encourages dancers to work with their unique strengths and abilities.

Ballroom dance also offers a wider variety of music and dance styles than ballet. While ballet is primarily focused on classical music and dance, ballroom dance can incorporate a range of music genres such as pop, jazz, and Latin music. This means that children who learn ballroom dance can enjoy a diverse range of dance experiences and develop a broader appreciation for music and culture.

Ballet dancers typically have a relatively short career due to the unnatural anatomical demands of the dance form. The training required to become a professional ballet dancer can take a toll on the body, and many dancers retire from ballet in their 30s or early 40s due to injuries or physical limitations.

In contrast, ballroom dance can be enjoyed by people of all ages and can be practiced throughout a person's lifetime. While ballroom dance also requires training and practice, it is generally less physically demanding than ballet, and the risk of injury is lower. This makes ballroom dance a great option for people who want to continue dancing as they age and can offer a lifetime of enjoyment and social interaction.

Finally, ballroom dance can provide children with opportunities for performance and competition. While ballet also has performance opportunities, ballroom dance competitions offer a unique experience for children to showcase their skills and receive feedback from judges. This can be a valuable learning experience that helps children develop confidence, resilience, and a competitive spirit.

In conclusion, while both ballroom dance and ballet are excellent forms of dance, ballroom dance has some advantages that make it a better option for children. By providing social opportunities, accommodating a wider range of body types, offering a variety of music and dance styles, and providing opportunities for performance and competition, ballroom dance can help children develop valuable skills and experiences that can benefit them throughout their lives.

Written by:

J. Patrick Clements