Hi Don: Thanks for the detailed advice. Many of the students in my studio are using a light plastic rod positioned at the right level to keep the shoulders level (most are doing Standard). However, the method you've given me uses the same idea without having to use the rod.

I can certainly relate to having to get around the cardboard cutout look. I've often thought that when viewing myself in the mirrors.

One thing I think I should mention here is that I've found that doing American Rhythm while learning Latin has been undermining the Latin. I started off doing American Rhythm, but Latin is much more commonly taught here in Soeul, and besides I fell in love with International Rumba. My instructor complains that I have too much of a bouncy look when I've been doing American Rhythm.

Regards, Chantal

Chantal. If you can try to watch a top professional on a DVD or tape. I would recomend The 203 World Super Stars Dance Festival Latin which is currently available on DVD. The couple I always look at is Paul Killick and his partner Hanna, mainly because they do more basics in their Rumba demonstration than the other five. See if you like the use of arms on an Alamana or Spot Turns, if so why not copy, maybe adding a bit of yourself there. Look closly at the different timing used on their Hip Twist and into the Fan Position. It sounds as if you are in a very good studio. best Wishes Don

Hi Don: Thanks for the tip. As you may know, there's a charming video clip of Paul and Hanna doing a cha cha cha demo on the DanceUniverse website. I should be able to get the DVD you've mentioned through them.

I also do Jive as well as Rumba. Lately I've been skipping with a jump rope to improve my Jive action. I keep my arms close to my sides and keep my feet closed while doing it. I was taught not to bounce while learning American Triple-Step Swing,and now have to get that bounce back again which has been frustrating. Using the jump rope in the manner I've described makes a decent jive active feel more natural.

Sincerely, Chantal

Chantal. It was pointed out by Karen Hardy, former Professional Latin Champion that in the Jive the knees are never straight. Denise Weavers also points out that the knees are used like a pushbike pump in the jive. Both of these are from the international style of dancing. If you do find a DVD and are mystified by what you see in the Jive, there are two types of Jive both acceptable in competition. In one you will see the knees being lifted much higher and the feet flicked towards the floor. In the other we have a swinging type chasse, this moves a little more. Karen Hardy also said that the Swing Jive it is much harder to keep in time if the music is fast. And went on to suggest that the way to go was Flick Jive and not Swing . I am writting this because if you are like me, the first time I saw a demonstration by an international couple I didn't see anything I could identify with. But you will see for yourself. Happy Jiving.

Hi Don: As luck would have it, I'm being taught Swing Jive, which I find looks great when it's done well, but I do tend to like a lot of fast jive music so it may prove to be a problem.

I'll have to take it up with my instructor the next time I see him. He's Korean, but licensed in England and trained in Germany, England and Italy. It's a good thing dance is such a visual art, because we often resort to getting around the language barrier through demonstration. Imagine having to pay big bucks for coaching, and only partially understanding what's being said! Chantal