Styles of Salsa Dancing
Salsa dancing originated in New York, but has evolved into different forms in different countries. There are two main styles of salsa: linear and circular. In linear salsa, dancers remain in their “slot”, switching places from one side of the slot to the other, similar to West Coast Swing. New York style salsa and LA style salsa are both danced in this fashion. LA-style salsa is probably the most popular form of salsa dancing in the world.
The Columbian style of salsa is danced to a slightly different type of salsa music called “Cumbia”, which is characterized by longer pauses between the first three and last three beats. Cuban Style salsa incorporates acrobatic lifts and tricks. Miami Style salsa is more relaxed and typically dancers move slower than in New York or LA styles. In Puerto Rico there are different ways to dance salsa. Salsa festivals bring dancers together to share their passion. Learning salsa dancing can help improve coordination and balance, boost confidence, and promote social interactions.
Types of Salsa Dance
Salsa dancing originated in New York. Salsa is danced shifting the weight of the body from foot to foot by stepping in harmony with the music. There are two main styles of salsa: linear and circular. In linear salsa, dancers remain in their “slot”, switching places from one side of the slot to the other, similar to West Coast Swing. Salsa on 2 is danced in New York. The lead dancer steps back on beat two, while the follower steps forward, unlike many other dance styles.
LA-style salsa is probably the most popular form of salsa dancing in the world. It is danced breaking on the first beat of the music (on 1) rather than on 2. Many newer dancers find this timing more intuitive. Cuban Style Salsa incorporates acrobatic lifts and tricks. It is danced in a circular motion similar to Swing, rather than in a line.
The Columbian style of salsa is danced to “Cumbia” music. Cumbia has longer pauses between the first three and last three beats. Feet never move forward or backward in Columbian salsa, it’s always a back to center or side to center step.
Salsa festivals bring dancers together to share their passion for the dance, build community, and share moves and tips. Learning salsa can help improve coordination and balance, boost confidence, and promote social interactions.