Closed Changes

(International Ballroom Style Step)

Right Foot Closed Change (RF) and Left Foot Closed Change (LF)

In the Slow Waltz, the Closed Change is an essential figure in the International Style ballroom dance repertoire. It serves as a basic step, allowing dancers to transition between different dance figures smoothly and maintain the flow of the dance. Right Foot Change and Left Foot Change created to transition between Natural Rotation (Right Turn) and Reverse Rotation (Left Turn). The Closed Change is a fundamental step for both beginners and experienced dancers to master, as it helps develop timing, balance, and connection with one's partner.

In a Slow Waltz Closed Change, dancers perform three steps in a box-like pattern, with their feet closing together on the third step. The step sequence starts with the man stepping forward with his left foot (lady stepping backward with her right foot) on count one. On count two, the man steps to the side with his right foot (lady steps to the side with her left foot). Finally, on count three, the man closes his left foot to his right foot (lady closes her right foot to her left foot), changing weight. This pattern can be reversed, with the man starting with his right foot and the lady starting with her left foot.

Foot Work for Right Foot Closed Change ( Natural Rotation to Reverse Rotation )

Leader:

1. Right Foot Forward - Heel Toe

2. Left Foot Side and Slightly Forward - Toe

3. Right Foot Close to Left Foot - Toe Heel

Follower:

1. Left Foot Back - Toe Heel

2. Right Foot Side and Slightly Back - Toe

3. Left Foot Close to Right Foot - Toe Heel

   Sway for Right Foot Close Change - Leader on 1-Straight, 2-Right, 3-Right.

Foot Work for Left Foot Close Change ( Reverse Rotation to Natural Rotation )

Leader:

1. Left Foot Forward - Heel Toe

2. Right Foot Side and Slightly Forward - Toe

3. Left Foot Close to Right Foot - Toe Heel

Follower:

1. Right Foot Back - Toe Heel

2. Left Foot Side and Slightly Back - Toe

3. Right Foot Close to Left Foot - Toe Heel

Sway for Left Foot Close Change - Leader on 1-Straight, 2-Left, 3-Left.

* Tip from Us - Any time you Close Feet, treat that like a Change of Weight, we do not recommend to keep your feet closed because it stops the movement and as you know music never stops.

The Closed Change in Slow Waltz follows the characteristic rise and fall action, with dancers rising on count two and lowering on count three. This creates a smooth and elegant movement in the dance, which is a defining feature of the Slow Waltz. By mastering the Closed Change, dancers will be better prepared to learn more advanced figures and develop their overall Waltz technique.