Dance the Waltz

The Waltz is a simple, yet elegant ballroom dance that is sometimes done at formal parties (such as weddings) or just for fun. This step-by-step guide will show you how.

Steps

Envisioning the Waltz

  1. Visualize the box. The basic waltz steps create the image of a box on the floor. This is why the basic step is called the Left Box. Your feet will stop at the corner points on the box and move along the edges and diagonally across the center. Envisioning this shape will help you as you learn the dance.
  2. Count in threes. The waltz is known for its three beat count. As you step, you should be able to count 1-2-3, 1-2-3, etc. Two 3-counts should complete your box.
  3. Dance basic steps or add turns. You can dance the basic square movement, especially in the beginning when you are learning the dance. However, it is more common for the waltz to include turns. These are easily added once you are more accustomed to the dance.
  4. Dance alone or with others. The dance is, of course, a partnered dance so you will have to dance with at least one other person once you have practiced a little. However, you can dance as a single couple or around several other couples. It is important when dancing with other couples, to observe how they are dancing. If turns are added to the dance, you will also need to move with the rest in order to avoid running into them.

Standing Correctly

  1. Lead clasps follow’s right hand in their left. Hold at shoulder’s height.
  2. Lead places their right hand to cup follow’s shoulder blade.
  3. Follow places their left hand with fingertips at lead’s shoulder seam.
  4. Place elbows at shoulder’s height.
  5. Stand with backs straight, upright, and knees loose.

Simple Steps: Lead

  1. Start with left and right feet together.
  2. Step forward with your left foot.
  3. Step diagonally with your right foot. This should place your feet roughly a shoulder’s-width apart.
  4. Step together. Bring your left foot to your right foot, such that both feet are together again.
  5. Step back with your right foot.
  6. Step diagonally with your left foot. This should again place your feet roughly a shoulder’s-width apart.
  7. Step together again. Bring your right foot to your left foot, such that both feet are together again. You have returned to the starting position and can begin again.

Simple Steps: Follow

  1. Start with left and right feet together.
  2. Step backward with your right foot.
  3. Step diagonally with your left foot. This should place your feet roughly a shoulder’s-width apart.
  4. Step together. Bring your right foot to your left foot, such that both feet are together again.
  5. Step forward with your left foot.
  6. Step diagonally with your right foot. This should again place your feet roughly a shoulder’s-width apart.
  7. Step together again. Bring your left foot to your right foot, such that both feet are together again. You have returned to the starting position and can begin again.

Adding Flourishes

  1. Add a quarter turn. As the diagonal step is taken, pivot on the stationary foot a quarter turn to bring the diagonal foot such the it is a step’s distance behind the stationary foot. The body should then be standing with feet apart and facing a quarter turn to the left of the original position.
  2. Add a ⅜ turn. This is done similarly to the above but with a more dramatic pivot. A pivot of any degree between ⅛ and ¾ can actually be taken.
  3. Use combinations. You can use various combinations of the basic turns to give the dance a more complex look.
  4. Switch to a Right Box step. You can dance an alternate of this basic step by switching the direction that the box moves, from left to right.
  5. Use more complicated steps. As you become better at the waltz, you may wish to try more complex steps. The waltz is a dance with a long history and a number of steps and turn combinations exist. Learn about whisks, hesitations, turns, and changes.



Tips

  • Try to be a graceful as possible.
  • Watch videos online to see how others dance the waltz. This will give you a good idea of what the dance and position should look like.
  • Stay on your toes most of the time, unless you're are going forward. Then your lean back a bit and take a heel forward.
  • If you really want to learn the waltz, consider taking ballroom classes at a local dance studio, fitness club, or community center. A parent or grandparent may also be able to teach you.
  • Watch costume dramas to get yourself in the mood for waltzing!

Warnings

  • Doing it by yourself is harder than with a partner. Try both ways.
  • Don’t step on each other’s toes. Ouch!

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Sources and Citations

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