How is Bachata dance?

If you wantLearn a dance Both sensual and accessible in order to be able to wiggle on a dance floor, the Bachata is made for you!

Rest assured, you don't have No need to be experienced Or as a couple to dance. Indeed, Bachata is for everyone. Yes yes, even for those who think they have "two left feet"! 😉

In this article, we will approach the following points:

  1. "Is it hard to learn Bachata?"

  2. "Does the Bachata dance alone or as a couple?"

  3. "What is the difference between Bachata and Kizomba?"

  4. And "the basics of the bachata: not, rhythms and styles"

So, are you ready to learn? If so, put your most beautiful pair of shoes, mount the volume, and read what is right. Vamos, let's go!

Is it hard to learn Bachata?

No, Bachata is not complicated. Indeed, this dance is considered one of the simplest during its beginnings.

THE No basic of the bachata follow one Movement in 8 times : Three steps on the left, a light tap, then three steps on the right, followed by another TAP. These movements are easy to memorize, even for those who have never set foot on a dance floor.

If we compare it to other Latin dances such as tango or salsa, Bachata is taken in hand fairly quickly, which puts confidence the novices in the matter. Therefore, it is possible to learn, while taking pleasure and without feeling overwhelmed.


Couple bachata

Does the Bachata dance alone or as a couple?

SO, Bachata is a dance that we describe as rather social, but it is also possible to practice it alone. Indeed, basic steps and hip movements can be repeated alone in its corner. So, if you are the type to want to dance in your living room before you put forward during an evening, it's quite possible!

However, it must be said, the Bachata takes on its full meaning when it is danced as a couple. Indeed, the connection between partners is essential to give life to this sensual dance.

If you never have a fixed partner, don't worry, it's common Regularly change a rider or rider during lessons or dancing evenings.

Traditionally, it is the role of the leader (often man) to guide movements. Therefore, don't panic ladies! You just have to follow the guide and let your hips do the work. Besides, A good dancer still highlights her partner, and vice versa.

And for those who are not a fan of too close positions, we don't forget you! Bachata also allows you to dance with more distance so that everyone can express their own personality.


Basic Bachata

The basics of the bachata (not, rhythms and styles)

If you are ever afraid of not being up to it, don't worry, you don't have to be a pro to get started. To learn and progress, simply follow our below.

1. Let the rhythm of the music guide you

Before you even move a foot, listen. Yes, listen really. Bachata is based on a Rhythm in 4/4, which means that there is four times to each extent. Moreover, this rhythm is often marked by Instruments like the Bongo or the Guitar

We advise you to put the catchy and well -known song " Obsesión " from Aventura. Close your eyes and try to follow the beats by lightly tapping your feet. By doing this, you will already be dancing (in a way)!

2. Basic steps

To start, stand up, feet joined, with a straight but extended posture. Now follow this plan in 8 times :

  • Time 1 : Take a step on the left with your left foot.

  • Time 2 : Bring your right foot back to the left foot.

  • Time 3 : Redo a step on the left with your left foot.

  • Time 4 : Lift the heel slightly with your right foot.

And hop, we change direction:

  • Time 5 : Take a step right with your right foot.

  • Time 6 : Bring your left foot to the right foot.

  • Time 7 : Remove a right step with your right foot.

  • Time 8 : Lift the heel slightly from your left foot.

That's it! This cycle is repeated again and again, on the left then to the right. The "tap" is the little touch that gives character to your steps.

To get an idea of ​​the rendering, you can watch some of our videos in clicking here .

3. Add a hint of swaying (or a lot)

It is here that your hips are entering the scene. In bachata, the hips are at the heart of the movement. Whenever you mark a "tap", your hips naturally follow.

Some tips to follow:

  1. Keep your knees slightly bent to give amplitude to your movements.

  2. If you start, let your hips move naturally before trying to accentuate them.

  3. Imagine that you are drawing a fluid curve and continue with your hips.

4. Vary the styles

There are several styles of bachata, each with its particularities. It's up to you to choose the one that most corresponds to your personality:

  • Modern Bachata. It is simple, therefore interesting for beginners.

  • Dominican Bachata. It is faster, with footsteps and complex legs. If you like challenges, it's for you.

  • And sensual bachata. It is for you if you like to create an intense connection with your partner.

If you don't really know which style to choose, we advise you to try them all. This will facilitate your choices, depending on your preferences.

5. Practice, again and again

There is no secret, the more you will dance, the more you progress. Besides, there are different ways to train.

First of all, you can Dancing alone at home in front of a mirror. Turn on the music and practice while observing yourself. This will allow you to see if something is wrong or not.

Then there are dance lessons. By registering, you will benefit from the wholeProfessional experience. The latter will correct your movements And you will save a lot of time.

And finally, there are the Dancing evenings. Even if you don't know everything, get started because you will see, it's very fun.

What is the difference between Bachata and Kizomba?

When we talk about Latin and African dances, Bachata and Kizomba often return to conversations. However, even if they share a certain sensuality, these two dances are very different, both by their origins and by their styles.

1. Origins and cultures

Bachata comes from the Dominican Republic. His music and steps mainly tell stories of love and passion, but also sometimes of melancholy. It is a festive and social dance that is very anchored in Latin culture.

On the other side, the Kizomba is a Angolan dance, directly from Semba, a traditional African dance. This style has been modernized over time, especially thanks to more electronic musical influences. Kizomba is a dance that expresses a lot of sweetness and intimacy.

2. The rhythm

We have already seen it but as a reminder, the bachata is dancing on a 4/4 rhythm, marked by instruments like the Bongo and the guitar (in general). Music is catchy and often romantic. Yes, you will want to move!

The Kizomba, on the other hand, offers a much more Lent rhythm. The bass dominates and is accompanied by bewitching melodies that make you want to connect to its partner.

3. Movements

In bachata, the steps are relatively simple. These are lateral trips, "taps", and a lot of hip movements. Partners alternate between positions open (more space to move) and positions closed (less space). Depending on the style chosen (modern, Dominican or Sensual), leg games and signings vary.

The Kizomba, on the other hand, is danted mainly in closed position, with the almost glued torsos. The movements are more subtle and often focused on the lower body.

4. The feeling on the track

Bachata has a joyful and dynamic energy. Even in its most sensual moments, it keeps some lightness. There is an alternation between rhythmic movements and marked outbreaks.

Kizomba, on the other hand, is very different. Each movement is checked, each step is calm and silent. We dance close, almost motionless sometimes, letting music guide our body.


Bachata lessons in Paris

Learn Bachata thanks to Salsanueva in Paris!

Here we are at the end of this article and one thing is certain, you now know How to dance the Bachata. And effect, we saw together the basic steps, the different styles, the rhythm and the swaying, but also the differences between the Bachata and the Kizomba. 

But then, what is the next step? 

At the house of Salsanueva , you can learn more about Latin dances, and all that, in the heart of Paris. Besides, we give the opportunity to benefit from 3 hours From initiation courses to bachata For only 25 € instead of € 51. 

To finish, Each course is given by passionate professionals Thanks to you will have an experience that you are not ready to forget.

If you tempt you, you can Reserve your initiation session now And go to another level!