Directions for Dancing the Waltz

Waltzing is much more casual than a tango.

Dancing the waltz is wonderful and romantic, and the best part is that it isn't at all hard. There is no dance step called "the waltz," so most beginners start with a "box step" and then move to a "left box turn." Leading a waltz takes a little confidence, but not nearly as much as a tango or even a salsa, so it's an excellent first dance to learn. Following a waltz is also simple because you don't have to worry about being dipped, swung or otherwise thrown about by someone new to the dance.

Instructions

Leading a Waltz:

1. Start with your feet loosely together. Place your left hand lightly on the center of your partner's back. Bend your right elbow and gently clasp your partner's left hand.

2. Step straight forward with your left foot. Step lightly and do not land on your partner's foot.

3. Step forward and to the right with your right foot, so it ends up parallel with your left foot, but about hip-width to the side. Do not kick your partner. Keep your steps fluid and light.

4. Move your left foot next to your right foot.

5. Step straight back with your right foot. This is not a tango, so you don't have to step way back. Keep it simple.

6. Step backward and to the left with your left foot, in a mirror image of what you did in step 3. Use a gentle pressure on your partner's back to urge her in the right direction. Don't tug on her; you are leading, not dragging.

7. Bring your right foot next to your left.

8. Repeat steps 2 through 7. When you have mastered the basic steps, you can add a 3/8 turn between steps 2 and 4, and another between steps 5 and 7.

Following a Waltz:

1. Start with your right hand resting lightly on your partner's right shoulder, and your left hand tucked into his right, your elbow bent. Don't be limp, but stay relaxed and with your feet together.

2. Move your right foot back as your partner moves his left foot forward. Wait for him to move first; he is leading.

3. Move your left foot back and to the side, so that it is parallel with your right foot. Your moves should be in sync with your partner's, but don't anticipate him too much.

4. Move your right foot next to your left.

5. Step forward with your left foot when your partner steps back with his right. Don't step on his foot, even if he stepped on yours. Stay relaxed. Just because you are going forward and he is going backward does not mean you are leading.

6. Bring your right foot forward and to the right, in a mirror image of what you did in step 3. Try not to kick your partner. Yes, even if he kicked you. Be a lady.

7. Bring your left foot next to your right foot.

8. Repeat steps 2 through 7, remembering to let your partner lead. If he is confident, he may initiate a 3/8 turn between steps 2 and 4, and 5 and 7.

Tips & Warnings

• Lead with confidence. A good waltz is two bodies moving together, but one of you has to be in charge.

• Do not try to lead if you are following, even if your partner is uncertain.

References

• Erik Summers: Waltz Timing
• Ballroom Dancers: Left Box Turn

Resources

• Sonny Watson's Street Swing: The Waltz