Walter Laird ’s is considered the definitive authority for Latin ballroom dance, used globally for professional training and examination by organizations like the International Dance Teachers' Association (IDTA) . Accessing the Guide

The text is organized to take a dancer from basic training to professional examination levels.

Laird’s genius was not just in performing but in systemizing . Before Laird, Latin dancing was taught as a series of steps and feelings. Walter Laird broke down the five International Latin dances——into measurable, repeatable techniques. He defined footwork, rise and fall, hip action, timing, and poise. Essentially, if you compete in the International Style Latin today, you are dancing the Laird technique.

: Recommendations on how to logically link figures together in a routine. Legacy and Modern Use

Elias took the book home.

Explanations of hip and body movements, such as the Samba Bounce or Rumba hip action . Fundamental Technical Principles