We definitely covered a lot of ground in this dance in the very 1st lesson of the Rumba dance. We learned . . .
1) Box Step: Man steps forward on L, to the side on R, and then closes his L foot to R. Then, he steps back on R, side on L, and close R to L. Wmn's - exact opposite.
2) Forward Crossovers: 1/2 box, a side step, then turning to be 'side by side' (one hand only), both do a forward rock step. They turn to face each other as they do a side step, and then a forward rock step in the other direction (in other words, man does a forward rock to his R, a side step, and then a forward rock to his L). They repeat - 2 more side steps to forward rocks, turning 180 degrees between. After the 4th rock step, they turn to face while stepping a side step; then step, step in place. They finish by going into a box step (he steps forward, she steps back)
KEY: A side step is a SIDE STEP - not a turning step. To look smart and stylish in this dance, turn AFTER the side step, not DURING. In other words - step side (facing partner), AND THEN turn sharply to your forward crossover step. **ALSO - when you step forward, be sure that your toe is pointed away from your body (twds your partner) - otherwise, you will end up 'pidgeon-toed'.
2) 5th Position Breaks: Same pattern as #1, except that partners replace the forward rocks with back rocks. On back rock #1 + #3, the man will have his R hand on her back, and his L arm (connected) held out in front of both of their bodies.
VIP - Most common mistake is to only 'partially' transfer your weight onto each step. This will give you a very broken & choppy look in your dancing. Make sure that you 'fully and wholly' transfer your body weight onto each step. ** On each step - move onto the foot, then continue to move your body weight onto that foot - both legs should end up being straightened.
On the last week of dance lessons We have a "wrap up party". Dance classes are not open to the public – members or guests only.
All students bring a food item – ie: appetizers, quartered sandwiches, veggies, or whatever. All foods are placed on tables at the front, and everyone helps themselves buffet style at intermission.
Students can bring their own water, pop, or juice.
