They can't do lifts on Dancing with the Stars in most ballroom and Latin dances because the show follows the traditional rules set by official ballroom competitions, specifically those of the National Dance Council of America. A lift is defined as any movement where one dancer has both feet off the floor with the partner's assistance. This rule is enforced to keep the show authentic to true ballroom styles, maintain fairness among contestants of all ages and physical abilities, and prevent the choreography from becoming dominated by visually impressive but non-traditional moves. Lifts could give younger or more athletic contestants an unfair advantage over older or less physically capable dancers. However, lifts are allowed in some newer dance styles on the show, such as Jitterbug, Argentine Tango, Charleston, Salsa, Jazz, and Contemporary, but remain banned in classic dances like Rhumba, Cha Cha, Jive, Paso Doble, Samba, Tango, Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, and Quickstep.
In summary:
- Lifts are banned in traditional ballroom and Latin dances on the show.
- The rule aligns with official ballroom competition standards.
- It ensures fairness and preserves dance style authenticity.
- Some newer dance styles performed on the show do allow lifts.
