Salsa Dancing

One of the most popular forms of Latin dancing is that of salsa. This is a dance performed among pairs and uses special rules for dancing. Here's a more in depth look at how salsa dancing works.

Salsa dancing is known to be more sensual and more exciting than other types of Latin dances. The rhythm that is used works in that it uses two measures with four beats in each measure. Three steps will be used in each measure. Two quick steps and a slow step or three straight quick steps followed by a tap or other form of movement that can be used on the last beat.

The beat parts that are used is different from that of other types of Latin dancing in that the beats are especially fast. The slowest time is at around 120 beats per minute while it can go as fast as 180 beats per minute.

The main movements used in salsa dancing are those of steps. In the basic step two quick steps and a slow step in a four beat measure are used. The break step is used as well on the same beat on each measure so that the partners will be able to get a good connection for getting the appropriate timing for their basic steps.

Breaks are used in the dance as well. For instance, in a forward break the leader will step forward on the first three counts and then replaces, or moves weight from one foot to another, and then steps backwards on the next three counts and replaces and goes forward again. For a back break or side break the same steps are used but instead the lead dancer steps backwards or to the side.

There are various styles of salsa dancing that are used. The Cuban Style is the most common style. This is a form of Latin dancing that uses downbeats on each odd numbered beat and upbeats on each even numbered beat. The Cuba Step is used here in that the leader does backward steps on the first three beats and then backward steps on the next three after an idle beat.

The Los Angeles Style is more of a style that works with sensual feelings. The leader of this dance will step forward on the first beat and then to the side on the next two beats and then turns ninety degrees. Forward steps on the fifth and sixth beats and turns on the next two beats are used followed by another ninety degree turn. The leader and follower will then switch positions in the next round of dancing.

Puerto Rican Style is also of the styles of Latin dancing. This is where the leader will step forward on the second count. Timing is rotated on four beats to work with the quick beats that are common in music for salsa dancing.

Salsa dancing is one of the most energetic forms of Latin dancing. It is not only something that has various different forms of styles but it is also exciting and a real thrill to perform.