Rumba has similarities to Cha Cha and Salsa. The lessons below will teach you the most basic Rumba dance steps for men and women.
In the first video you’ll how to do the Rumba box step which is one of the most popular Rumba basic steps. In the second video you’ll learn how to count the Rumba.
First, Rumba Basic Steps (The Box):
Summary of Rumba Box Steps (Above)
Men:
Fwd with left foot
Side with right foot
Close left foot to right foot
Back with right foot
Side with left foot
Close right foot to left foot
Women
Back with right foot
Side with left foot
Close right foot to left foot
Fwd with left foot
Side with right foot
Close left foot to right foot
Pro Tip:
You want to do what is called “cuban motion” latin technique – which can be achieved just by bending and straightening your knees through out this dance.
Next, How To Count The Rumba:
Summary of Rumba Count & Rhythm:
The way you count the Rumba dance is: “Slow, Quick, Quick” through out. The slow is 2 beats, while the quick is only 1 beat. An alternative way to count in numbers would be: 1,2 (Slow), 3,4 (Quick, Quick). The Rumba is 4/4 musical measure.
Lastly, Rumba Dance History & Character:
The American Rumba originated in Cuba, and became famous in the USA during the 1920’s. This dance’s character was an offshoot from the Bolero-Son dance, dances to afro-cuban inspired music. This dance incorporates a lot of foot an leg pressure into the floor with every weight change. There is a natural hip action that is achieved from bending and straightening the knees. In open figures there is an emphasize on arm styling by extending the “free arms”. Some of the popular songs that can fit the Rumba include “Save the last dance” by Michael buble and “Better Together” by Jack Johnson.
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