Rumba

What Is Rumba?

Rumba is one of the five International Latin ballroom dances, characterised by slow hip movements, intricate footwork and a strong emphasis on the romantic connection between partners. It developed from Afro-Cuban music and dance traditions.

The characteristic hip movement (Cuban motion) is central to rumba technique, requiring isolation of the hips in response to the timing of the steps. The dance progresses slowly, allowing for expressive characterisation.

Learning Rumba in London

Rumba is widely taught at ballroom and Latin dance studios across London. As the slowest of the Latin dances it is often recommended for beginners as a way to develop hip movement and partner connection.

London ballroom schools include rumba within their Latin curricula alongside cha cha, samba, paso doble and jive.

Rumba classes in London are part of standard Latin dance programmes at most ballroom studios. The emphasis in beginner classes is on the correct hip action and timing before progressing to figures and turns.

The romantic quality of the dance makes it popular for social dancing as well as competition.