Casciato's journey into the vibrant world of salsa began with his love for its rhythmic beats, which drew him to the dance floor and inspired him to teach. Salsa, a dance with origins traced back to Cuba around the 20th century, involves intricate movements between a lead and a follower.
The dance is characterized by steps and weight shifts set to a specific rhythm—three steps per four beats of music. This foundational rhythm supports more complex movements, including turns and spins, which make salsa challenging and exhilarating to learn and teach.
He particularly enjoys the solo footwork known as "shines," where he can express his unique dance style. Teaching salsa allows him to share his passion and see his students thrive, which he finds immensely fulfilling. Apart from dancing, Michael spends significant time on the pickleball court. This sport, a mix of table tennis, badminton, and tennis, was created in 1965 and has increased in popularity, particularly in the United States.
It involves playing with a perforated plastic ball on a court about a quarter the size of a tennis court, where players can engage in singles or doubles matches. Over the past year, he has found pickleball to be an excellent physical exercise and a social activity that enhances his coordination, balance, and cardiovascular health. The sport's simple rules and fast-paced nature keep him engaged and continuously improving his skills.
