How to Do Basic Mambo Turns

Mambo is a form of Cuban dance that has become popular in the United States among young and old people alike. Instructors often teach the mambo at dance clubs and weddings because the dance starts with basic moves and turns that anyone can learn.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Basic Mambo Step

1. Begin with your feet together, back straight and head high. Bring your arms loosely in front of you, elbows bent and hands in front of your body at your waist. These are basic steps to do alone, so remember if you're dancing with a partner, one person must move backward when you move forward to avoid running into each other.

2. Step your right foot in place.

3. Switch your weight to your left foot as you step forward, turning your hip out slightly.

4. Step back on your right foot, shifting your weight again.

5. Bring your left foot back to center, stepping down onto it.

6. Step your right foot back, turning your hip out slightly.

7. Shift your weight to your left foot, stepping down as you bring your right foot back to the center.

Basic Mambo Turn

8. Start with the basic mambo step position, ending with your weight on your left foot, your right foot slightly suspended.

9. Step down on your right foot.

10. Lightly place your left foot forward, add weight to the ball of your foot and pivot, turning your whole body to the back.

11. Step onto the right foot, still facing the back.

12. Shift your weight onto your left foot as you step in front of you and pivot to the front.

13. Move your right foot back, turning your hip out slightly.

14. End with a light step onto your left foot. Repeat the turn for more practice and add it to your mambo routine.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch yourself in a mirror to notice your foot and body alignment. Make sure you keep your head up and smile as you dance--mambo is all about having fun.