The Waltz is easy to learn and harder to master. In Waltz dancing, the dancers need to be aware of the steps and the posture. Learning and practicing both will have you doing a beautiful and graceful dance across the floor.
How to Start Learning the Waltz
Although it may seem easier than other ballroom dances, it's best to begin learning the Waltz in a dance class or in private lessons with a dance teacher. As you learn to waltz, you will also learn how to move around the dance floor properly. All couples on the dance floor move in a line of dance counter-clockwise around the floor. For that reason, you need to learn to be aware of other couples moving near you. All couples follow the same direction so you don't bump into other couples. If it happens, though, you can be polite and keep going.
The Waltz Posture
Waltz dancing requires a firm, poised and graceful frame. The couple faces each other, making contact with about half of the body, rather than completely in line. She rests her left hand lightly on his upper left arm, at the level of his bicep. His right hand rests on her left shoulder blade, with her right hand held comfortably in his left. Dancing is led by means of his body as he moves forward. When the dancers are standing straight and tall, light resistance will enable him to lead as he steps forward, and his partner will naturally respond by stepping backward. Leading and following are excellent skills for any partner dance.
The Basic Box Step
The Waltz Box Step is the first step you'll learn. The steps follow the 1-2-3 count of the Waltz music, with one step per beat. As the man leads, the woman's steps will mirror the man's, facing him in closed dance position. The male partner steps forward with his left foot. His second step is to the right with his right foot. On the third step, he closes his left foot to his right. In doing this, the couple have turned a quarter turn. The second half of the Box Step is the same, but on opposite feet: the man steps forward on his right, steps left and closes with his right. The woman mirrors this pattern.
The Underarm Turn
To turn the woman, the man raises his left hand in the air, which is her signal to turn. She takes six steps, one per beat, moving forward in a circle until the sixth step returns her to facing him.
As you learn the Waltz, practice your poise, posture, leading and following. Once you have those elements down, you are ready to take your dance public.
 | Learning how to waltz is a rewarding and enjoyable activity. The grace and coordination you develop by learning the posture and flowing movements, and the way you and your partner coordinate your steps can help both of you bond. |
 | Basic Waltz steps, combined with proper posture, are the two main components of a beautiful and graceful Waltz. If you're a dance novice learning for an event, you can still shine if you know two steps and the right position. |
 | The traditional Waltz dance is graceful, romantic and flowing. The dancers gently dip and raise their bodies with each step, enhancing the flow of their movements. |
Easy Waltz steps such as the basic Box Step and Underarm Turn can help a beginning ballroom dancer get a feel for rhythm and footwork. It is also important to receive instruction in the proper position and posture. |
The Waltz dance steps everyone should know are the basic Box Step and the Underarm Turn. Once you know these steps, you can be ready for a wedding dance or a beginner's ballroom dance class. |
