Rise & Fall: In the Waltz, lower on heel and begin rise on toe during count 1. On count 2, step with toe and continue rise through count. Lower onto toe then heal on count 3.

Stepping Forward: "When you place your foot it should come in for a gradual landing rather than a vertical placement. There should always be a softness as well as a strength in the transfer of weight from one foot to the other. ...When moving forward in the Foxtrot on a slow step it is a fairly standard and accepted rule that you may use a "heel lead." That does not mean that you curl up your toes and land grotesquely on the heel of your moving foot. Also, excessive spring in your landing may result in a jolt. While you are learning, make a conscious effort to step more softly and eliminate "this jolt". The slow forward step therefore, is described as HT (heel-toe)..." [More] [Graphic illustrations]

Stepping Backwards: "Try to take two steps backward in succession. As you pass one foot by the other do not let the heel of the supporting foot to lower and take weight until it is passed by the moving foot. Skim the toes and ball of the moving foot lightly along the floor. Keep your feet parallel and be sure to brush each foot closely by the other when they pass..." [more]  [Graphic illustrations]

Stepping Sideways: "Just as you need to "push off" the toe of a supporting foot to take a forward step you also must take side(ward) steps using a "push off" from the toe of the supporting foot....The objective is to stay "up at toe" height and maintain smooth movement. Be careful not to take your side steps on the flat foot or onto the heel of the moving foot. [more]

Body Position: Maintain the five points of contact in closed position: left hand, right hand,elbow, hip, inner thigh(s).
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Produced by Allan Jeong
Allan.Jeong@doit.wisc.edu
All rights reserved: October 1, 1997

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