The term “Swing Dance” is commonly used to refer to a group of dances developed in response to swing music, a genre of music developed in the 1920’s, 30’s and 40’s. During this time Swing Dancers were often called "Jitterbugs”.

"Swing Dancing" is used to refer generically to one or all of the following swing era dances: Lindy Hop, Charleston, Shag, Balboa and Blues. This group is often extended to include Jive, Rock and Roll, Western Swing, and other dances developing in the 1940s and later.

Swinging Jazz music features timing associated with African American and West African music and dance - a combination of crotchets and quavers which many swing dancers interpret as 'triple steps' and 'steps'. Yet Swing Dancers have also introduced changes in the way these rhythms were played - a distinct delay or 'relaxed' approach to timing.

Many, if not most, of the swing dances listed above are popular forms of social dance. However, Swing Dancing can also be a highly competitive sport; with competitions being held internationally.

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