How to Dance Tango

Most tango dances are done in close proximity with the partner.

The tango is a sensual, dynamic ballroom dance that originated in Argentina. The count for many of the beginning steps is slow, slow, quick, quick, slow. A slow count is held for two beats and a quick is one beat. The steps should be staccato, meaning that you strike the floor quickly with your foot, not shuffling or dragging your feet until the final slow count of the pattern. Your knees should be bent through most of the dance. There are many tango step variations, but it is best to start with the basics for the lead partner.

Instructions

1. With the partner's facing each other, the leader must place his right hand on the partner's lower back. His left arm should be extended to the side with the arm bent and the hand holding the partner's right hand. The partner needs to put her left hand on the leader's right shoulder.

2. On the first two beats, step straight forward on your left foot with the heel down first. Step forward with the right foot on the second beat and move it past the left. The partner should mirror this and all other moves.

3. For beats three and four, step forward with the left foot. Slide the right foot to the right, bring the left foot slowly to the right, and slightly bend the left leg.

4. For beat five, shift your weight to the left foot, and do a quick forward step. Step forward quickly, do a half-turn clockwise, and shift the weight back to the left foot. Step forward slowly with the right foot.

5. On the next beat, bring the feet together and repeat the moves from beat three through beat five.

Tips & Warnings

• Tango partners usually maintain body contact from the rib cage to the hips. Beginners can keep space between them until they are more experienced at the dance.

References

• Ballroom Dance Reviews