Waltz is a smooth dance, traveling around the line of dance. It is characterized primarily by its rise & fall action. The shoulders move smoothly, parallel with the floor, not up and down. The head should turn in the direction of the turn, otherwise the mans head is upright and looking over the right shoulder of the lady.
Rise and Fall
The rise and fall is unique to the waltz. If possible, all the steps in the waltz should be long. On the first step forward, the weight is taken on the heel, then on to the ball of the foot. A gradual rise to the toes should be started at the end of the first beat, and continued to the second and third beat of each bar of music. Lower to the normal position at the end of the third beat by lowering to the heel of the foot which is carrying the weight.
