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The Rumba is a popular style of Latin dance that originated from Cuba in the 19th century. It was developed from the lower-class areas in Cuba, which blended African rhythms and Latin music. This style of dance has strong cultural roots based on preserving African heritage. It was initially viewed as a “party” for marginalized communities, so it was not approved by the government early on. Public drumming was also banned, which heavily impacted the dance genre. It persisted throughout the years despite this and later was embraced by the Cuban government after the revolution in 1959.

American Rumba is a slower social variation of Rumba, featuring a box step and bent knee motions starting on count 1. International Rumba is more competitive, featuring straighter legs while starting on count 2. Bolero-Rumba is a style that is a slower and more romantic variation of the dance.

Today, Rumba is commonly danced socially within ballrooms and dance studios. It is great for beginners, as it features a slower forgiving pace based on the steps and music. It also provides a starting point for common foundational moves in Latin dancing. The Rumba is danced to slow rhythms. The feet stay close to the floor with a sliding motion while the hips move side-to-side. Rumba is usually written in a 4/4 time signature. It is a slow, romantic dance played between 100 and 120 beats per minute. It is characterized by a quick-quick-slow rhythm, counted as 2-3-4-1, with an emphasis on hip action.


Click below to watch a short video example of the Rumba style:
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w5h1Gwz46TM