How to Rumba

The rumba is a spot dance, thought to have been originated in Cuba by prisoners wearing leg chains. It is ideal for crowded ballroom conditions.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Tuxedos
• Men's Dancing Shoes
• Best Of Ballroom Rumba CD
• Rumba Videos
• Women's Dancing Shoes

The Leader

1. Stand opposite your partner.
2. Place your right hand on your partner's waist.
3. Extend your left hand to chest height with your elbow bent and your palm raised.
4. Grasp your partner's hand in a loose grip.
5. Listen to the 2/4 or 4/4 beat as the music begins.
6. Step with your left foot when you hear the beat: two feet to the left.
7. Follow with your right foot.
8. Step with your left foot: two feet forward.
9. Step with your right foot: forward two feet and to the right two feet, in one fluid motion.
10. Bring your left foot to meet your right.
11. Step with your right foot: backward two feet.
12. Bring your left foot to meet your right.
13. Repeat.

The Follower

14. Follow the leader.
15. Place your left hand on your partner's shoulder.
16. Place your right hand in your partner's outstretched hand.
17. Step forward when your partner steps back.
18. Step back when your partner steps forward.
19. Mirror your partner's moves as he makes his steps.

Tips & Warnings

• Step with your knee bent, and straighten your leg when your foot comes down to the floor. This motion gives the dance a Latin kick.
• Don't stop when dancing the rumba.