Mambo dance is one of the most popular forms of Latin dance. Although it has some similarities to salsa dancing, it is a distinct dance form with its own steps and rhythms. The Mambo originated in Cuba in the 1930s and eventually spread to New York, where it was adapted for new music and American audiences. Today's Mambo is different from the original Mambo, but it is just as fun. Once you learn these tips, you will be ready to hit the dance floor.
Tip #1: Understand what kind of Mambo you are doing.
Mambo originated almost 80 years ago and has been adapted in many different ways since then. Currently, there are many different methods of Mambo. If you are teaching yourself, or supplementing your dance lessons by learning with videos online, you need to know what type of Mambo you are doing so you don't get confused. There is the American Ballroom method, the New York Hustle/West Coast method and the International method. Before you get any tips online, be sure you're studying the right method.
Tip #2: Don't forget your hips!
Mambo literally means "shake it!" and, in this dance, you do just that. The Mambo is characterized by a series of rocking foot steps. The steps are simple, and they allow you to swivel your hips from side to side. This is the most interesting part of the dance. If you simply do the steps, you aren't giving the dance enough flavor and interest. If you feel uncomfortable or awkward swiveling your hips, just practice rocking them from side to side for a while without doing the steps. Watch Mambo videos to get the movement just right.
Tip #3: Experiment with music choices.
Surprisingly, Mambo doesn't work well with most modern Latin music, which works better with Salsa dancing. If you are having trouble getting the beat down, try dancing to a favorite modern American pop song. You'll be surprised at how well the four-four beat of Mambo works with modern pop songs. Listening to your favorite songs can make learning the Mambo more fun.
These tips will help you learn more about this lively dance form. Once you know what type of Mambo you are trying to learn, practice swiveling your hips and experiment with choices of music, and you'll be well on your way to learning Mambo.
 | To learn the steps to Mambo, you'll need to decide what type of Mambo you'll be doing. If you get dance instruction at a studio, you will most likely be learning the modern Mambo, since that is much more popular. |
 | Mambo dancing is still popular around the States and in international competitive dancing circles. Although professional Mambo dancing can look quite intimidating, it's a fun and active Latin style that can be picked up by anyone with a little practice. |
When it comes to Mambo, the history of this dance is similar to other Latin dances. Like the Cha Cha, Rumba and Salsa, the Mambo is based in many different cultures, and the rhythms and steps have never grown stale. |
Mambo music and Mambo dancing have a linked history. Since its origins in Cuba, Mambo has evolved into several different dance forms, each one with slightly different footwork and moves. |
Find articles about mambo dance, mambo history of, steps to mambo, mambo music and mambo dancing. |
