Phil. I think if I were you I would go back to square one and make sure that i have the right idea about poise and position. Do this solo.Also wear a tie. First. place both hands across your chest, elbows up fingers touching, palms toward the chest. Without moving your upper arms spread from the elbows to an angle of 45 degrees. Analyse exactly where your elbows are in relation to the body, They should be in front. Place the end of your tie in your right hand. The tie should be taught. It must stay that way throughout your dancing. When you are dancing with a partner, make sure the lady has completely filled your right side. Her left armpit is on the man's wrist. Don't worry about the ladies feet. If she is tall they will be in a different position than if she is short.And finaly find out what is meant by a Pelvic Floor in Polates because that is your position when standing. Or near enough. Both parties keep the naval under their own ribcage. You may find you have a different contact point. Let the lady push her naval towards her partner, outwards. This creates a sway back. Now pull it back to a Pelvic Floor Postion. Isn't that better. Incidently this was all in my last lesson on Wednesday. I asked for technique and believe me I got it.