In this dance video lesson I explain the Salsa timing and count. As a beginner, it is very important for you to understand that there are a total of 8 beats in every phrase of Salsa music. However, when you are dancing, you are usually only making 6 steps within 1 phrase. So how do we count 8 beats to 6 steps? Easy! We pause on count “4″ and count “8″. So the most common count used in Salsa is 1,2,3-5,6,7 (counts 4 and 8 are pauses). In the Salsa timing video I illustrate the most basic step to the count as an example. Alternatively, you may count Quick, Quick, Slow – Quick, Quick, Slow. The Slow takes up 2 beats so it is the same thing as the numerical count. Please watch the Salsa timing video below for better clarity and explanation of the Salsa count.
Salsa Timing Video Explanation:
Other Beginner Salsa Moves You May Want To Check Out:
Salsa Basic Step (Fwd & Back)
Salsa Side Basic Step
Salsa Underarm Turn (Lady’s turn)
{ 9 comments… read them below or add one }
Makes sense. I always wonder why in our group classes our instructor would count out loud but would skip 4 and 8. Thanks. I’m starting to like Salsa thus far!
Great to hear you are liking Salsa! Yeah, sometimes teachers forget to clarify how the Salsa timing and count works. But it is one of the most important things beginners need to know early on.
Glad to see you teach the count the same as our instructor. Helps to learn quicker when we are practicing.
This lesson is very important ! Let’s reading to care ! I very like it! thankyou very much !
Thank you for your help! I’ve always loved Latin Dances and finally now I can understand how it works. Is it possible for someone to learn dancing only via internet (this is my aim at least)?
I think you should use our online dance lessons to HELP you learn how to dance. But I recommend you take physical local dance classes as well. Without real life experience, its hard to become a good dancer.
I like the QQS,QQS Salsa timing a bit better for one reason. Some dancers still do a mambo and start on the 2-count of the music as opposed to the 1-count. Numerically, it’s more like a cha-cha with 2 3 4-1 2 3 4-1 (or like International rumba). This way, the counts can be moved around by starting on a different (musical) beat. There’s seems to be some debate (at least among the dancers I know) on whether salsa “should” start on the 1-beat or 2-beat. For social dancing, it may not matter.
Salsa can be danced On1 or On2. On 1 is considered “Los Angeles Style” style. On 2 is considered “New York” style. I teach the On1 L.A style here.
Your videos are very helpful. I just started my first salsa lesson today, and I will be able to practice at home without forgetting the beat. Thanks!