Learning Latin Dance Steps
- 1). Understand the difference between a conga line and salsa steps, distinguish the merengue from the tango and make certain you can identify a club-worthy samba from the cha cha. Explore cultural differences that inspire Latin dances, including Argentina’s sultry tango and Spain's flamenco.
- 2). Take it slowly when you start learning, so you understand the nuances of the moves you’ll be asked to make. Rent Latin dance videos from the library; purchase them from shops specializing in reselling audiovisual aids traded in by folks who just didn’t get the beat. Download free Latin dance steps on the Internet by searching these keywords: “free” “Latin” “dance” “lessons.”
- 3). Make a paper pattern based on what you learn from the video(s) you've acquired, a technique hearkening back to the 1940's when paper floor patterns guided students in their pursuit of mastering everything from the Rumba to the Cha-Cha-Cha. You can even try chalk on your hardwood floor, but if you bust a great move, you could erase your guide as you become more proficient.
- 4). Pay as much attention to your posture and gait as you do to the actual steps you’re learning. Watch other dancers regularly to see how head turns, arm movements and hip and shoulder moves coordinate with footfalls to produce the complete Latin social dance experience.
- 5). Practice makes perfect so visit dark nightclubs specializing in Latin music where crowded dance floors disguise mistakes you may make initially. Listen to the music. Repeat the basic steps learned at home over and over. Use your arms only after you’ve got your feet on autopilot.
- 6). Bring your rudimentary Latin routine to a park district or community program dance class, so you’ve an opportunity to learn more sophisticated dance moves in a comfortable learning environment where everyone is getting their Salsa sea legs. Invest in private lessons if cash is no object to get one-on-one training that will advance your skills.
- 7). Dress the part when showing off your bolero, bachata, bumbia, paso doble and merengue skills. Dudes: Choose sleek pants with button down or v-neck shirts made of stretchy material, so you can move easily. Buy lightweight, flexible shoes with Cuban heels. Chicas: Bold, glittery fabrics in stretchy knits with satin and lace trim are perfect as are low heels and shoe straps, so your pumps stay put no matter how many times you twirl around. Be sure to coordinate your outfit with your partner’s, so you fit right in on the dance floor.
