Character of Dance -  Waltz is classified as a smooth dance and is generally danced between 82 - 92 Beats Per Minute. Waltz is danced to a six count basic pattern of (1 2 3  4 5 6). Waltz displays closed work and accents the rise and fall, "sway" and zig-zags down the floor. The partnership also must maintain an hour glass shape while dancing in closed frame.

Progression - Waltz is a progressive dance. It travels in zig-zag counter clockwise around the floor. Very rarely does it travel back line of dance or stops during forward progression. Such cases are usually choreographed and done only during competitions or if you have room on the floor.

Foot pattern - The six count basic pattern of (1 2 3  4 5 6) most commonly used. When incorperating rise and fall, the peak is reached on the tail end of the second count. The lowest point is reached at the tail end of the third count. Counts One and Four are heal leads and are strided out (comfortably). Sycopated  rhythms are acceptable such as (1&2 3  4 5 6) or (1 2&3 4 5 6).