Waltz Prep Step

The Prep Step is not a figure (and is thus not normally listed in the Syllabus), but a way of commencing Waltz, Foxtrot, and Quickstep. The purpose of the Prep Step is for the Man to ensure the Lady is following his movement and on the correct foot, and also to initiate movement in order that the following figure may be danced smoothly.

Although the Prep Step differs among Waltz, Foxtrot, and Quickstep in Timing, Rhythm, Alignment, and Direction, the movement is essentially the same.
Go to the Foxtrot Prep Step
Go to the Quickstep Prep Step

Man

Commence in Closed Position, facing DW

Step_# Steps Turn Alignment Moving
1 LF to side, wide step Body turns to R Facing DW DC
2 RF to side, wide step, then brush LF to RF Body turns to L Facing DW DW against LOD
3 LF fwd   Facing DW DW
Step_# Timing Position Rise & Fall Sway Footwork
1 123 Closed     i/e of foot to WF
2 12 Closed     i/e of foot to WF
3 3 Closed Lower e/o 3   HT

1) Although it is possible to commence at other alignments, the alignment given in the charts is almost always used

Lady

Commence in Closed Position, backing DW

Step_# Steps Turn Alignment Moving
1 RF to side, wide step Body turns to R Backing DW DC
2 LF to side, wide step, then brush RF to LF Body turns to L Backing DW DW against LOD
3 RF back   Backing DW DW
Step_# Timing Position Rise & Fall Sway Footwork
1 123 Closed     i/e of foot to WF
2 12 Closed     i/e of foot to WF
3 3 Closed Lower e/o 3   TH

1) Although it is possible to commence at other alignments, the alignment given in the charts is almost always used

Following Figures

Ended Facing DC  
PreBronze RF Closed Change
   
Ended Facing DW As described in the charts above
PreBronze Natural Turn; Natural Spin Turn
Bronze Hesitation Change