Hard Dance is an umbrella term that refers to the grouping of modern electronic dance music genres. The term usually includes genres such as UK Hard House, Hard NRG, Hard Trance, and Hardstyle. The BPM for these genres typically ranges from 140-160BPM, and consists of a 4x4 rhythm (specifically four-on-the-floor). It is not uncommon for the term 'Hard Dance' to be associated with other Rave music genres such as Freeform, Hardcore, Techno, and some Psy Trance. This however is a matter of opinion. 'Hard Dance' is typically an Underground musical movement, one which breaks away from the British cheeseboard of Pop Dance music.

It is hard to describe 'Hard Dance', as it consists of the four main genres mentioned above. Hard House and Hard NRG typically consist of more bouncy beats, and uplifting basslines (typically not in the Pop Dance cheese style). These two genres are very melodically orientated. Hard Trance and Hardstyle however, are much more percussive, with large heavy kickdrums, and dirty basslines. This is a particularly predominant approach with Hardstyle.