Ballroom Dance Steps

The Foxtrot

Foxtrot is one of the most popular forms of ballroom dancing, known for its ultra-smooth traveling nature. It involves long walking movements with subtle variations in elevation. When a couple executes a turn, the movements resemble a Waltz, but with gentler rising and falling, resulting in a smoother and more even looking presentation.

There are two types of Foxtrot – American and International. American allows for both open and closed dance positions, while the former only features closed. You dance the Foxtrot to music in 4/4 time, with the odd beats accentuated more heavily. When you hear people talk out “slow, slow, quick, quick” in social dance, they are talking about Foxtrot. While Foxtrot has plenty of steps on its own, these rhythmic movements make up the bulk of the choreography. Musical tempos can increase as a Foxtrotter becomes more advanced.

Polka

When dancing the polka, you will find it is a rather quick dance. The most basic of polka steps is made up of a hop followed by a chasse, which is first done to the left and then to the right. Polka dance is speedy and more peppy than Foxtrot, and definitely draws a different crowd. Those who enjoy dancing Polka are often high energy, making it a popular traditional social dance for those who are young and young at heart.

Waltz

The Waltz is, like the Foxtrot, a very smooth dance that involves extensive traveling. Shoulders are an important focus in the Waltz, and they move in rhythm to the stepping movements, parallel to the floor, rather than moving up and down which is sometimes seen in other variations of social dance.

The waltz involves a basic step known as a “rise and fall” which is special to this genre of ballroom dance steps. All steps are long, and with that first step in a forward fashion, the weight is removed from the heel and then is transferred onto the ball of the foot. Toes should rise up gradually during the end of the first beat, and continue for the next few. By beat number three, the positioning is again back to normal.

Learning Ballroom Dance

This all may seem daunting for first time ballroom dancers, however ballroom dance steps are easily learned with a little gumption and proper training. If you are interested in learning ballroom dance steps, or any other form of dance, check with your local recreation center to see if they offer any courses. A community college is another great resource when you are an aspiring dancer, as many hold inexpensive dance classes. You can also sign up for private lessons at many social dance studios if you want to splurge and do something fun with your significant other.

Ballroom dance steps have enjoyed a newfound popularity and have peaked the curiosity of a new generation thanks to competitive dance television shows featuring them, such as Dancing with the Stars. There are plenty of ways to get involved in the world of ballroom dance, and learning these basic and fun steps is only the beginning of your dancing journey!