Latin dances, with their characteristic sexy flair, are becoming more and more popular around the globe. You will often see Latin dances used in top-rated competitions like “Dancing with the Stars”, and many Hollywood movie favorites such as “Take the Lead” and “Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights”. Dating back to around the 15th century, Latin dances come in a wide variety. Two of the most popular Latin dances recognized internationally, however, are tango and salsa.
Tango and salsa are easily distinguishable from one another. If a couple appears to be gliding across the floor in an intimate and sensual embrace, that’s tango. Salsa, on the other hand, is more of a party, open kind of dance where there’s a lot of spinning and hip wiggling. Dance centers here in Duluth, like Superior Ballroom Dance, offer both, and you can certainly learn both if you wish. However, different dances appeal to different people. If you to focus on learning just one dance, ask yourself the following questions:
Are you more vivacious or stern? Salsa, with its energetic spins and wild hip movements, is more informal and is said to be the dance for the “cheery ones”. Both dance partners must shine on his or her own, and the more flamboyant the movements, the better. Tango, on the other hand, is considered more sophisticated and soulful. It’s more on imbibing the music, and the movements are subtle yet sensuous.
What brings the butterflies in your stomach? Pair dancing always involves some degree of proximity. In tango, you really have to get close as if you and your partner are real life lovers in a youthful flame. If you are the type who isn’t really comfortable with getting intimate, particularly with strangers, then you may not appreciate tango very much. Alternatively, salsa is more on individual expression and brief body contact—although you stare at each other in the eye like long time buddies.
What’s your workout goal? You burn more calories when dancing salsa than when dancing tango since it involves more energetic movements. Once you start practicing, you should bring extra shirts and keep towels on-hand to wipe off sweat. However, if you’re focused more on toning your core muscle groups and refining your body control, then you’ll surely love tango.
If you can’t decide between the two dances, consider checking out classes at a local dance center. Take the time to watch people who are currently taking a tango or salsa class and make your decision based on what you see. You can also experiment and try out both for yourself. Who knows? You may actually grow passionate of the dance that pushes you out of your comfort zone.
Sources
Salsa or tango: which Latin dance is right for you? Oxford University Press Blog
Tang V Salsa, The Guardian