Waltz one of the oldest and most popular ballroom dances. It originated hundreds of years ago in Vienna and became popular there in the 18th century, resulting in the dance spreading to other parts of Europe. The popularity of waltz continues to this day.

• Before you learn the steps of waltz, learn the basics of the dance.

1. Waltz, as most pair dances, is danced with one leader and one follower. It's as important that the leader is direct when leading as it is that the follower do not attempt to lead.
2. If you will be leading, hold your partner's right hand in your left hand. Place your left hand on your partner's upper back.
3. If you will be following, hold your partner's left hand in your right hand. Place your left arm on your partner's upper right arm, near the shoulder.
4. Make sure to keep enough distance to your partner and keep your arms firm. This enables the leader to lead and the follower to easily sense the leader's directions.
5. The count is one-two-three.

• The basic step of waltz is called the box, because the end result of the movement is a box. If you don't turn when completing the box, you should therefore end in the same location where you started. To move around the dance floor when waltzing you will need to turn when completing the box. The following are the directions for the leader when doing a box. The follower will follow by doing the opposite movement.

1. First, step forward with your left foot.
2. Step forward and to the right with your right foot.
3. Shift your weight to your right foot.
4. Slide your left foot so that it's next to the right.
5. Step back with the right foot.
6. Step back and to the left with the left foot. Shift weight to the left foot.
7. Slide your right foot toward your left foot.
8. You have now completed a box and short be in the same location as where you started.
9. The box is the main element of waltz. Repeat it until you know it well.

• Continue practicing and learn some additional steps.

1. Learn how to turn while doing the box, so that you can move around the dance floor instead of staying in one place.
2. Learn some additional steps, including progressive movement (to travel backwards or forwards on the dance floor), underarm turns and hesitations.
3. Watch people dance waltz to learn how to make the dance flow.
4. Rent or buy dance instruction videos for more lessons.
5. Make sure you practice to waltz music that has the right beat.