Samba Steps

Samba, also known as the Brazilian Waltz, is certainly one of the hottest dances around. Characterized by sensual and steamy hip action it displays flirtatious movements of passion and desire.

Many versions of Samba exists - Carnivale, Mesemba, Carioca, a Batucado, Conga, and, of course, ballroom just to name a few. Ballroom Samba that is a waltz like partner dance has very little in common with the original form that is danced in Brazil as a solo dance. It is, however, extremely popular in North American and European ballrooms.

Ballroom samba is usually danced to music written in 2/4 time, meaning there are two beats in each measure. The basic box step for Samba consist of three steps. This means that three steps are performed in two beats of music. The basic rhythm is 1 & 2, 3 & 4, 5 & 6, 7 & 8, commonly described as "one, uh two", "three, uh four", and so on.

Ballroom Samba is danced in a closed position, with partners slightly apart. The lady’s right hand and the man’s left hand are held about the lady’s eye level. The man’s right hand is placed on the lady’s shoulder blade. The lady’s left hand is placed flat on the man’s back.

Samba Dance Steps

Basic Samba step is a very simple box step. Remember, the rhythm is 1-uh-2,3-uh-4.

Basic Samba steps for Men

1. Step forward with your left foot (count 1)
2. Move your right foot to your left foot (uh)
3. Left foot in place, weight shifts to it (count 2)
4. Step backward with your right foot (count 3)
5. Move your left foot to your right foot (uh)
6. Right foot in place, weight shifts to it (count 4)

Basic Samba steps for Ladies

1. Step backward with your right foot (count 1)
2. Move your left foot to your right foot (uh)
3. Right foot in place, weight shifts to it (count 2)
4. Step forward with your left foot (count 3)
5. Move your right foot to your left foot (uh)
6. Left foot in place, weight shifts to it (count 4)

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