How to Find the Rhythm in the Mambo

The most difficult part of dancing the mambo is knowing when to take the first step because the dance begins on the second count. Fortunately, there is an easy way to begin on count 1 while you're learning the dance.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Lift your right foot and set it down in place on count 1.
2. Step forward on your left foot on count 2 (this is called "breaking").
3. Rock back onto your right foot on count 3. You can just shift your weight to your right foot, or you can step in place with your right foot as in step 1.
4. Return your left foot to its starting position on count 4 (this is called "closing").
5. Pause for count 5.
6. Step back on your right foot on count 6.
7. Rock forward onto your left foot on count 7.
8. Close on count 8.
9. Pause for count 1, or step in place with your right foot as in step 1.

Tips & Warnings

• Both men and women should practice alone until the step pattern comes naturally and easily. When dancing together, the man steps forward on his left foot on count 2, and the woman steps back on her right foot on count 2.
• As you become better at dancing the mambo, you won't have to step in place on count 1. Instead, simply wait until count 2 and then begin.
• It may be helpful to count the steps in two sets of 4 rather than a set of 8. Remember to pause or step in place on count 1 each time.