What Basic Moves Are Taught in Week One Bachata?
In week one of Bachata, you start with the fundamental side-to-side basic step. This move relies on a standard eight-count rhythm divided into two sets of four beats. You step to the left for three counts, then lift your hip and tap your right foot on count four. Next, you step to the right for three counts and tap left on count eight. This foundational pattern builds your timing and muscle memory quickly.
Another key move taught in week one is the forward and backward basic step. Instead of moving side to side, you step forward with your left foot on beat one, bring your feet together on beat two, step forward again on beat three, and tap on beat four. You then repeat the pattern going backward. This variation helps you get comfortable moving across the floor while maintaining a smooth and steady cadence.
Understanding the tap and hip accent on beat four and beat eight is an essential part of week one. You learn not to put any weight on your foot during the tap. This tap acts as a placeholder so your body is ready to change directions immediately on the next count. Tapping gently while raising your hip gives Bachata its distinct, relaxed look while keeping your body balanced throughout the dance.
Music timing and counting are always covered during your first lesson. You learn how to hear the core rhythm in popular Bachata tracks, identifying the heavy beats and guitar patterns. Your instructor will guide you in counting aloud: one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight. Recognizing the beat helps you stay on track, making it much easier to execute your steps in sync with your partner.
Proper lead and follow connection is introduced right away in week one. You will practice holding hands comfortably in an open position while keeping a strong upper body frame. Leaders learn how to gently signal direction changes using gentle pressure from their palm, while followers learn how to respond smoothly. Building a solid connection early prevents misunderstandings on the dance floor and makes social dancing feel light and effortless.
You will also learn a simple right turn during your first week. This basic turn builds directly on your side-to-side footwork without interrupting the main eight-count rhythm. The leader gently lifts the follower’s hand to signal the turn while both dancers keep stepping on the beat. Mastering this basic turn gives you your very first combination to practice and enjoy when social dancing with different partners.
At Dennis PaSamba Dance Company, we break down these week one moves in a friendly environment. We are located at 4820 W. Irving Park Rd. in Chicago, IL 60641 in the Six Corners area of Irving Park with free parking. Our group classes are $95 for 4 weeks. You do not need a partner to join because partners rotate throughout the lesson. Text or call 717-PaSamba to get started today.
Questions people ask
Do I need to bring a partner to learn these week one Bachata moves?
No partner is needed to attend our classes. Partners rotate during the lesson so everyone gets equal practice time. This helps you build strong lead and follow habits right from week one.
How hard is it to learn the week one Bachata basic steps?
Bachata basic steps are simple and easy for complete beginners to pick up. The eight-count timing is steady, and your instructor guides you step by step. You will feel comfortable moving to the music by the end of your first class.
How do I sign up for the week one Bachata group class?
You can easily register by sending a text or calling 717-PaSamba (717-727-2622). Our group classes are $95 for 4 weeks at our studio located at 4820 W. Irving Park Rd. in Chicago. Free parking is available on site.
Visit the studio
Dennis PaSamba Dance Company
4820 W. Irving Park Rd., Chicago, IL 60641
Six Corners · Portage Park · Irving Park
dennispasamba.com · Text/Call 717-PASAMBA ((717) 727-2622)