There are a lot of different variations in ballroom dancing, with the most obvious being the American versus International style of dance. There are also multiple versions of certain dances, like the Waltz and Viennese Waltz, along with the East Coast Swing and West Coast Swing.

For instance, you can spin both of your ankles in circles for 10 reps so your feet are stretched and ready to go. You can also lay on your back and perform 5-8 reps of arms circles.

Some colleges and universities have ballroom dance teams that are open to students.

This dance position helps the dance flow more smoothly. These instructions apply to the leader of the dance. If you’re following, do the opposite dance moves of your partner. It may feel a little uncomfortable to dance so closely with someone, which is completely normal! Just try to focus your energy on the dance itself.

The Waltz is a calm and controlled dance, so there’s no need to rush any of the movements! Try to take your time and relax so you can enjoy the dance.

At this point, both of your feet will be together.

If you’re following the dance, do your best to trust your partner and do a mirror image of their movements. It’s okay if you don’t get the steps right at first!

Once you’ve done this, you’ve completed one cycle of the dance.

Like most ballroom dances, you’ll be in pretty close proximity with your partner. These instructions only apply to the dance leader. If you’re following the dance, do your best to mirror your partner’s steps.

The leader and follower will be doing steps that are mirror images of one another.

It’s okay if your dance steps and technique are a little unsteady at first! Everyone learns ballroom dancing at their own pace.

Both of your feet will be together at this point. This movement needs to be as quick as possible to help the dance continue on.

This is essentially a repeat of the beginning of the dance, but in reverse.

Try to do these steps more quickly than the forward and backward steps. [20] X Research source

You can repeat the dance as much as you’d like until you feel more confident in your dance moves!

These instructions apply to the person leading the dance. If you’re following the dance, do the opposite of your partner.

Note that a slow beat counts for 2 beats of music. [24] X Research source

Continue to push forward while keeping your knees bent.