Waltz Steps

Before we talk about waltz dance steps, let's stress on its history. Waltz dance, one of the most elegant ball room dances, evolved in 16th century, where dancers held each other so closely that they could touch their faces. The Viennese were the first to practice this dance form and during 19th century, it gained worldwide momentum. Waltz dance got winds in different countries and were rejoiced by people, as an extremely passionate dance. The original moves were improvised and modern waltz steps came into existence.

19th century waltz dance form had its own gestures and styles, practiced by different countries. Have a look in the various country dance forms.

* Country Western Waltz
* International Standard Waltz
* American Style Waltz
* Cross Step Waltz
* Scandinavian Waltz
* Peruvian Waltz
* Mexican Waltz
* Cajun Waltz
* Tango vals Waltz
* Contra Waltz (Freeform Waltz)

Waltz Steps for Beginners

Before you perform waltz dance, you need to learn the basic moves. This dance is accompanied by smooth gliding moves, traveling and rotating and final rise and fall. It involves agility in body and flexibility of feet. The basic step is composed of the box step and then followed by under arm turn. One complete waltz is done along ¾ tempo. Try to grasp the basic steps from the points elaborated in the following content. Read more on waltz dance steps.

Step # 1
This is a duet dance and equal effort should be made by both dancers. In the first count, the leader (man) takes one step in the front with his left foot. At the same time, his partner shall go back one step with her right foot.

Step # 2
The second step is similar to that of the first one, but with the other feet. the leader steps front with his right foot till his heel and on count if two, he steps down. His partner does a similar move but with her left feet, on count of two.

Step # 3
In the third step, the leader steps on his left side. He makes a one half turn to his right, while his partner does the same step with her right feet. On count of three, she steps right and takes one half turn to the left.

Step # 4
Step four starts once again with count one. The leader, once again steps back on his right foot while his partner steps to the front with her left foot. This step is similar to that of step one, only with the other foot.

Step # 5
In this step, on the count of two, the leader steps back with his left foot. He steps down, when his left foot lies next to his right toe. The same move is performed by his partner but with the opposite feet.

Step # 6
Waltz steps turn is the final posture to complete one waltz move. Once again on count of three, the leader steps down with his right foot and makes one half turn to the right. His partner repeats with her left foot and one half left turn. Read more on how to waltz.

These six waltz steps compose the basics of waltz. New learners can practice these simple steps initially in front of the mirror. Stepping along with rhythm and timing of tapping is very important. Once you have gained control over your moves you can work on the critical and intricate waltz steps with the help of a professional waltz dancer. You might also like to play these waltz songs while dancing.

I must say that instead of memorizing these basic waltz steps one by one, it's better you start tapping your feet in the presence of music or dance songs. Imagine yourself in tuxedo and your lady in a gown dancing in unison! Feel the dance and feel your partner, while dancing. Passionate huh!