Also known as Slow Waltz or English Waltz originally flourished in Vienna and Western Europe in the 18th and 19th century before coming to England in the 20th century is an elegant, smooth dance with partners moving around the ballroom in an anticlockwise direction. It is characterized primarily by its rise & fall action. Socially, this is the most popular dance for people to learn and is a good introductory basis toward learning the other four dances.

The Viennese Waltz developed from the English waltz and is a fast dance consisting of a continuation of rotary actions.

Foxtrot, the most classical of all ballroom dances originated in the summer of 1914 by Vaudeville actor Harry Fox. It is is a smooth progressive dance characterized by long, continuous flowing movements across the dance floor. For the beginner, the easier version is the Social Foxtrot, which is ideally suited for dinner dances and weddings. For the more advanced dancer, this is the dance they want to perfect. Foxtrot is extremely versatile and can be danced to a variety of musical styles and tempi.

The Quickstep was developed in the 1920s in England. During this time, many bands began playing the Foxtrot at a faster pace, earning the name Quick Foxtrot. The Charleston appeared after this, but lacked long-term potential. However, in 1927 the Charleston was combined with the Quick Foxtrot resulting in the Quick Time Fox Trot and Charleston, so it became known simply as the Quickstep. The quickstep is elegant, smooth and glamorous. Quickstep dancers are energetic while appearing extremely light on their feet.

The Tango was developed from the Argentine Tango into a more international style. The characterisation of this dance is based on a strong, seemingly intense movement and staccato action danced to passionate music. There is no rise and fall in this dance.