The biggest difference between American smooth and international standard is the body position. In international standard partners are always in a closed position where as American smooth has closed, open and sometimes solo positions. International standard has a fifth dance that is different from American smooth called Quickstep where as American smooth has four dances (Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, and Viennese Waltz).

When comparing American rhythm to Latin, American rhythm has a difference in the leg and hip action. Both styles dance Cha-Cha and Rumba, however, the speed between the two dances varies. The Latin style consists of the Samba, Paso Doble and the Jive. In American rhythm, the style also has East Coast Swing, Bolero, and Mambo.