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The Argentine Tango spread to Europe the early 20th Century when wealthy Argentineans moved to Paris, and by 1913 it had become a worldwide phenomenon. Due to its risque nature, a "cleaned up" version of the dance was created and this became known as the more acceptable Ballroom Tango.

The dance is more sensual and intimate than the Ballroom Tango. The couples' upper bodies should remain close together and their lower bodies apart. Quite often, the lady will even rest her head on the man's chest or their faces will be very nearly touching.

The Argentine Tango is about the relationship between man and woman and can be expressed in either of the following ways:

- It can turn into a battle of wills with the man and woman using different ways to triumph.

- Alternatively it can be a dance of two people becoming one, often these routines look as if the couple has become one being with four legs.

How routine should look:

The movement in this dance is very much contained in the lower part of the body. The top half remains fairly calm and static, whilst the lower half is active and frenetic

Routines should include:

The Walk - 'La Caminata'. This is the basis of the Argentine Tango and is about the gradual weight transference over one leg only, so that the other leg is always free.

Front and Back Ochos - 'Ochos Adelante' and 'Ochos Atras'. They are basic walks, forwards or backwards, with an additional pivot in between the two steps, making a figure of eight.

Boleo. Seductive and elegant, Boleos always involve the swivelling action of the hips; and a whiplash effect from one leg - otherwise they look, and feel unfinished.