How to Begin the Cha-Cha Dance

The cha-cha is a basic front-to-back movement with a three-count step in the middle. The cha-cha is incorporated in many Latin dances. If you learn it well, you can eventually move on to the rumba, mambo and several other more advanced dances.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Begin with your right hand on your partner's left shoulder blade and your left hand bent at the elbow with your palm outward, holding your partner's right hand very lightly. Your feet should be about shoulder width apart.

2. Step forward with your left leg and rock back to your original position.

3. Shift your weight from your left leg to your right and back to your left, creating the three step that is so important in the cha-cha.

4. Step back with your right leg and rock back to your original position.

5. Shift your weight from your right foot to your left and back to your right, again completing the traditional cha-cha-cha 3-step.

6. Add flair to the steps by twisting your hips slightly or by rocking your shoulders up, down or side-to-side with your steps.