WaltZ

Waltz is danced to music with three beats to a measure. VienneseWaltz is very similar to normal Waltz, but is specialized for a fast tempo.

InternationalStandardWaltz has only closed figures; that is, the

couple never leaves DancePosition. Contrast AmericanStyleWaltz,

in which some figures involve breaking contact entirely. For example,

the (? what's this figure called?) includes a free spin for both the

man and lady. Open rolls are another good example of an OpenDanceFigure, in which the lady alternates between the man's left and right sides, with the man's left or right arm (alone) providing the lead.

A typical Waltz figure (from the man's perspective) starts lowered into the knees and travelling forward with a strong heel lead. Count 2 rises and is taken on the ball of the foot, and count 3 starts on the ball of the foot and lowers to the heel as the couple begins to lower in preparation for the next measure. A smooth rise-and-fall action is a primary characteristic of this dance.