Latin dance, explained

What it is

Salsa on 1, often called crossbody style, is fast, playful, and full of flair. Danced “on the 1” beat, it has a lively, forward-driving energy that makes it instantly exciting, whether you’re spinning across the floor or hitting sharp accents in the music. The signature crossbody lead creates smooth, flowing patterns between partners, giving the dance its sleek, linear feel.

Expect lots of turns, expressive styling, and room to show off your personality. It’s social, energetic, and perfect for dancers who love a mix of rhythm, technique, and a touch of drama.

The vibe

Energetic, flirtatious, expressive. Great for people who love big music, fast turns and meeting lots of new partners in one night. New to it all? Start with our level guide or compare it with Cuban salsa.

The music

180–220 BPM. Listen for layered percussion (clave, congas, timbales), brass stabs and call-and-response vocals.

What it is

Bachata is all about connection, rhythm, and a relaxed vibe. With its easy-to-learn basic step and signature hip movement, it’s a dance that welcomes beginners while still offering depth for more experienced dancers. The music, often romantic or melodic, sets the tone for smooth, flowing movements and playful footwork.

From traditional to modern styles, bachata can be sweet and simple or rich with musical interpretation. It’s the kind of dance where you can laugh, experiment, and really feel the music with your partner.

The vibe

Intimate, expressive, emotional. The slower tempo makes it accessible for beginners and rewarding for advanced dancers exploring musicality. Pick the right level for your first bachata class.

The music

120–140 BPM. Guitar-led, often heart-on-sleeve lyrics. Modern playlists also include 'bachata remixes' of pop songs.

What it is

Cuban style salsa, also known as Salsa Cubana or Casino, is a style of salsa dance that originated in Cuba featuring intricate turn patterns and body isolations. Cuban style salsa is danced on the “on 1” timing similar to LA Style Salsa, but Cuban salsa is danced in a circular fashion rather than in a slot (similar to East Coast Swing).

Cuban salsa, like its name suggests, has its origins in Cuba and is usually danced to Cuban salsa music or timba. The style is often considered more “street” than other forms of salsa, and incorporates movements from Afro-Cuban dances such as Rumba and Guaguanco. Cuban salsa dancers also tend to exaggerate the movement of their hips and torso compared to other forms of salsa.

The vibe

Earthy, grounded, social. Big focus on connection and conversation between partners rather than flashy spins. Often shares the floor with Rueda and salsa at the same socials.

The music

Timba and son cubano - heavier bass, montuno piano riffs, and breakdowns that invite improvisation.

What it is

Kizomba is smooth, grounded, and effortlessly cool. Known for its close connection and subtle lead-and-follow, it’s danced to mellow, rhythmic music that invites you to slow down and tune in. The steps are small and controlled, creating a gliding, almost hypnotic feel on the dance floor.

Rather than big flashy moves, kizomba is about precision, timing, and connection. It’s intimate without being intense, perfect for dancers who enjoy a calm, immersive experience that’s all about the music and the moment.

The vibe

Calm, meditative, intimate. Often described as 'African tango' for its closeness and musicality. Curious how it compares with bachata? Or browse kizomba classes.

The music

Semba, kizomba and the modern offshoot 'urban kiz'. Slow, melodic, often electronic-influenced.

What it is

Rueda de Casino is a playful, caller-led Cuban salsa danced in a wheel of couples, celebrated worldwide for its energy and group-connection.

The vibe

Fun, communal, addictive. Best learned in a regular weekly class so you build the shared move vocabulary. Build the basics first with Cuban salsa, then jump into a Rueda class.

The music

Timba and high-energy salsa