Many dancers shy away from Latin styles because they feel self-conscious. “Oh, I can’t move my hips like that!” Guess what? Moving your hips is a technique, which can (and should) be learned. Nobody is expecting you to already know how. That’s what taking classes is for. If your studio doesn’t teach this, there are lots of great exercises available online. If Latin dance interests you, don’t let an imaginary handicap stop you! Shake it with the rest of us!

The roots of the Rumba can be traced back to Afro-Cuban music and dance traditions, where the fusion of African and Spanish rhythms birthed a style rich in passion and expression. The dance reflects the romance and sensuality of its musical counterpart, creating a dance form that is not just a sequence of steps but a storytelling art.

The story of the Cha-Cha-Cha begins in the 1950s in the vibrant dance halls of Cuba. It emerged as a variation of the Mambo, infused with a syncopated three-step chasse, giving it a distinctive flair. The infectious rhythm and playful steps quickly gained popularity, transcending cultural boundaries and making its way to the international dance scene.