The most unusual character of rumba is its rhythmic pattern, which is copied from son. The usual wisdom is that in 4/4 music the steps are taken primarily on beats 1 and 3. In rumba, however, no step is taken on beat 1, and the step on beat 3 is often just a weight transfer in place. Moving steps are taken primarily on beats 2 and 4. The spanish term for this dancing pattern is a contratiempo (in counter-rhythm). The more familiar style is called a tiempo.
The steps, however, are not the most essential moves in rumba. Body movements contribute more to the feeling of the dance. The step on beat 4 is followed by a slow body movement from one side to another, and this movement is emphasized by its timing on beat 1. This is the most important factor for the sensual charcter of the dance.
The basic movement has six steps. The most striking characteristic of rumba is that no step is taken on beat 1. Also, the step on beat 3 is just a weight transfer, the position of the feet is not changed. Moving steps are on beats 2 and 4. Feet moves are taken a contratiempo (in counter-rhythm) unlike the vast majority of dances which are danced a tiempo.
| Measure | Beat | Man | Lady |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 | ||
| 2 | Left foot forwards | Right foot backwards | |
| 3 | Weight back on the right foot | Weight back on the left foot | |
| 4 | Left foot to side | Right foot to side | |
| 2 | 1 | ||
| 2 | Right foot backwards | Left foot forwards | |
| 3 | Weight back on the left foot | Weight back on the right foot | |
| 4 | Right foot to side | Left foot to side |