Swing dance is a commonly used term referring to a group of dances developed to flow with jazz music in the 1920’s. Most forms of swing dance began in African-American communities, but have crossed over in appeal to a wide range of participants.

The dance features syncopated timing and movements with various changes in rhythms with designed delays in the timing to create a relaxed swing to the dance. One of the most popular swing dances is the Lindy Hop, an African-American dance that was first developed in New York in 1927. The dance gained renewed popularity in Britain in the 1980’s.

There are many forms of swing dance and hundreds of competitions and clubs throughout the United Kingdom. The London Swing Dance Society was formed in 1986 to give dancers in the region the opportunity to pursue their passion in a fun, educational and safe venue. Swingland is a London dance studio offering instruction and fun in the art of Swing dance. Classes start with beginners and continue through to advanced and also offer special dance events and competitions.

There are several formats of competition; Strictly – one couple competing through various heats to randomly selected music and no-pre-choreographed steps. Showcase – one couple competing together for a single song to selected music in pre-choreographed steps. Jack and Jill – leads and follows compete individually in various heats with partners randomly selected each heat and no choreography.

Judging of swing dance is based on three ‘t’s’; Timing – relating to the temp and rhythm of the music, Teamwork – how well the lead and follow dancers dance together and the dance variations, Technique – how clean, precise and smooth movements and dance is executed.

Swing dance appeals to a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Dance clubs offer a safe, fun venue to enjoy a pastime that appeals to University students as well as older adults. As a result swing dance continues to grow in popularity and offer participants a fun, healthy activity.