What are the rules for wheelchair standard and Latin dances?
I · Intermediate · Dancing and judging · 1 of 4Each dance has set music at a fixed tempo, lasting at most one and a half minutes (one minute for the Viennese Waltz and Jive). Combi standard couples keep a closed hold throughout and the standing partner may not push the chair with a foot. Everyone moves anticlockwise. Lifts, high back kicks and uncontrolled speed are banned and bring the lowest marks.
How it works
- Music: 1.5 minutes; 1 for Viennese Waltz, Jive.
- Tempo: set bars per minute.
- Closed hold: combi standard.
- Feet: not to move the chair.
- Line of dance: anticlockwise.
- Lifts: banned; front-wheel lifts allowed.
- Dangerous moves: banned.
- Breaking off: lowest marks.
The glossary has the music length, the bars per minute, the closed hold, the line of dance, the lift and the dangerous movements.
Tricky cases
A couple breaks hold to avoid a collision. Penalty?
None.
Can a dancer lift the chair's front wheels?
Yes.
Can a Latin dress be two pieces?
Yes, if the top is decorated.
Can a dress be changed between heats?
No, only between rounds, unless damaged.
Why the rule exists
Fixed music and tempo let couples be compared fairly. Banning lifts keeps it ballroom dancing.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Combi standard | Closed hold | R 4.2.1(c) |
| Viennese Waltz, Jive | One minute | R 4.2.2.1 |
| Lifts | Banned | R 4.2.1(g) |
From the rule book
World Para Dance Sport, 2026 Rules and Regulations, articles 4.2.1 to 4.2.3. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: WPDS 2026 Rules and Regulations and the classification pages.