What is para dance sport?
B · Beginner · Events and classes · 1 of 3Para dance sport is competitive dance in which at least one dancer uses a wheelchair. Conventional events use the five standard dances and the five Latin dances; freestyle events are a free programme of the dancers' choice. A panel of adjudicators judges each performance. It is run by World Para Dance Sport under World Abilitysport.
How it works
- Rules body: World Para Dance Sport.
- Parent: World Abilitysport.
- Conventional: standard and Latin.
- Standard: Waltz, Tango, Viennese Waltz, Slow Foxtrot, Quickstep.
- Latin: Samba, Cha-Cha-Cha, Rumba, Paso Doble, Jive.
- Freestyle: a free programme.
- Judging: a panel of adjudicators.
- Wheelchair: at least one dancer.
The glossary has the para dance sport, the conventional event, the freestyle event, the standard dances, the Latin dances and the adjudicator.
Tricky cases
Is it the same as wheelchair dance sport?
Yes. That is the older name.
Can a standing dancer take part?
Yes, as the partner in a combi.
Is it in the Paralympics?
No. Its top events are the World and Regional Championships.
Who oversees a competition?
A technical delegate.
Why the rule exists
Keeping the standard and Latin dances ties the sport to ballroom dancing, while freestyle allows new work.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Conventional | Ten dances | R 4.1.1 |
| Freestyle | Own programme | R 4.3 |
| Officials | Technical delegate | R 3.7 |
From the rule book
World Para Dance Sport, 2026 Rules and Regulations, articles 1, 2, 3.1, 3.7 and 4.1.1. Checked 15 October 2026. Official documents: WPDS 2026 Rules and Regulations and the classification pages.