2. • Latin dance has it root in Africa dance
and drum rhythms
• As slaves were carried to various
islands in the Caribbean their dance
styles were blended with those of the
local Indian and Spanish populations.
• There are two types of Latin dancing.
The first type of Latin dance derives its
name from the area from which it
originates, Latin America. These dances
tend to be a little more freestyle. The
second type of Latin dance is referred to
as International Latin and is seen in
various social dancing classes, ballroom
classes, and competitions. These Latin
dances are the social dances such as
Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, and Paso
Doble.
3. Popular Latin Dance Styles
Bomba
Salsa
Mambo
Rumba
Bachata
Samba
Merengue
Cha Cha Cha
4. Bomba
Bomba is one of the tradi-
tional musical styles of
Puerto-Rico.
• Bomba is described to be
a challenge/connection
between the drummer
and the dancers.
5. Bomba Cont’d
Dancers took turns challenging the
drums, creating a dialog with their movements
that the solo drummer answered. It is said that
woman bomba dancers would typically dance
with their skirt raised, showing their slips, to
ridicule the attire worn by plantation ladies.
6. Salsa
Salsa is definitely a dance that can heat up the
dance floor.
The salsa dance has evolved from Latin and
Caribbean dances.
The dance has been influence by many
cultures, but it originated in Cuba. It is a blend of
Spanish music and African rhythms.
7. Salsa Cont’d
Salsa is almost the same as the Mambo in that the
partners both have a pattern of six steps danced
over eight counts of music.
There are many different styles of Salsa that vary
by location: Cuban-style salsa, Columbian style-
salsa, L.A. style salsa, New York-style
salsa, Puerto-Rican style salsa, and Casino Reudo-
style salsa.
8. Tango
Tango is called the dance of love, it’s a beautiful
dance known for its sensuality and passion.
Although most people believe it’s very difficult to
grasp, it’s actually quite easy to break down.
Tango is a sensual ballroom dance that originated in
South Africa.
9. Samba
Samba is certainly one of the most unique and fun
dances you can learn. Samba originated in Brazil, it is
characterized by a rhythmic, sensual hip movements.
Samba is danced as a festival dance during the street
carnivals and celebrations. The festive style and
mood of the dance has kept it energetic and admired
to this day.
Samba is not as hard as it looks. The simple steps
make is very easy to learn.
10. Rumba
Rumba has its roots in the Cuba. Its consists of
two quick steps and then a third slower step that
takes two beats to execute.
Rumba is a slow, sensual dance with wonderful
rhythms and bodily expressions that make it one
of the most popular Latin American dances today.
11. Benefits of Dancing
You can benefit from any types of Latin dance. It will
keep you shape either physically or mentally. For
example:
Reduce stress
Increase energy
Improve strength
Increase muscle tone and coordination
Decrease blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels
Help you manage your weight
Strengthen the bones of your legs and hips
Reduce heart rate.
12. Conclusion
Dancing will make you socialize with many
people, build healthy, and gain more confidence
all around.
Dancing will make you a better leader and you
should keep politics away from the dance floor.
