The Ritz Ballroom Dance Studio's instructors understand that dancers learn in stages, which is why they utilize the popular Medalist system, where students work toward specific goals at each level. Dancers begin at an introductory stage, where they learn the basic steps of ballroom dances such as the Viennese waltz, foxtrot, and cha-cha, and Latin styles such as bolero or salsa dancing. From there, dancers increase their awareness of each movement, progressing from slow and somewhat unsure to consciously confident—striving to let the dance flow through them without thinking about each step or wondering if Fred Astaire ever tried the worm. Private lessons give students one-on-one practice time with instructors who move at a customized pace. Students then progress to group classes where they learn to dance with a variety of partners and pick up good dance habits, such as never biting their dancemate's nails. Scheduled dance parties create a relaxed, casual setting for further practice in the studio, which bathes dancers in a dreamy atmosphere complete with floor-to-ceiling mirrors, honey-hued wood floors, and the glittery twinkles of a disco ball.