How to Dance the Tango for Men

The tango is a dance that originated in Argentina and Uruguay. Today, it is a popular ballroom dance that, at times, dancers incorporate into other art forms, such as dancing, gymnastics and figure skating. In the tango, each dance partner dances a particular way. Here is how to dance the tango for men.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Start with the left foot. Step up slowly using heel to toe. The man will always begin with the left foot and the woman will always begin with the right foot.

2. Step forward with the right foot slowly using heel to toe.

3. Move the left foot forward again quickly. The first steps should be slow, slow, quick. These steps are done like a walking motion, but make sure you use heel to toe with each step.

4. Put the right foot out to the right side quickly. This is a side step and will be the part when the woman dancer shifts direction.

5. Bring the left foot so it's next to your right foot.

6. Practice. Slow, slow, quick, quick, quick. This is the basic pattern for men who dance the tango.

7. Alternate directions as you continue to repeat the steps over using a slow, slow, quick, quick, quick motion.

Tips & Warnings

• Always keep your back straight and your chin up while doing the tango. You should always face the direction you are going and do not smile. The tango is a passionate dance.
• Learn the various tango dances. They all have the same basic steps, but each one has something distinctive added. There are about 20 different tango dances. The Argentine Tango is the most popular.

[musselmant]

on 3/27/2008 Keep in mind that ballroom tango is NOT the same as the authentic Argentine tango form of tango, and that if you danced ballroom tango in Argentina they would think you very uncouth. Learn Argentine tango instead!