How to Do Rumba Dancing Footwork

The Rumba is one of the most romantic and sensual of the Latin social dances. In the Rumba, your body stays naturally loose and flowing as you move from one step to the other. It is a partner dance that focuses on a slow-quick-quick basic rhythm.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Dance on the balls of your feet, knees bent slightly to allow the hips to move sensually. Men should step forward with their left foot slowly while rolling their hips out slightly.

2. Step to the right quickly and transfer your weight as you roll your other hip. Immediately bring your left foot in to your right, again shifting your weight as you roll your hip.

3. Complete the box by slowly stepping back with your right foot and rolling your hip. Quickly step to the side with your left foot and bring your right foot in to your left.

4. Start with your right foot stepping back for the woman's step. Face your partner and dance gracefully together.

5. Stay close. The man leads the woman in every step, as if he doesn't want to let go of her. Practice the box step, focusing on the slow-quick-quick movements until you feel comfortable with the rhythm.

6. Add other steps, turns, dips and combinations to create a routine.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear comfortable shoes when dancing the rumba. Though the tradition for women is to wear brightly colored heels, add insoles or break the shoes in before dancing with them.