Is there a quick tip to remember to use/extend the arm in both ballroom and latin? I can't seem to remember to extend my arms...help

For girls, think "hairball"- you pick it up with your middle-finger and thumb, the elbow leads, then the forearm, then the wrist, and then finally the hand (never have your palm face an audience). Ladies also dance "from the heart" as in, your motions radiate outward and sometimes upward from there. Guys dance from the 'heart' only in a different way... it's like they've stood in a doorway, pressing against the sills, so that when they step away, their arms 'levitate' away from their center, their palms also away.

JMO, could be wrong.

Thanks - very helpful tip

The easiest way I get my students to extend their arms is to tell them ALWAYS elbow first. Whether extending or retracting the arm... elbow first. After extended, rotate the arm so the palm is up and bring your elbow into your stomach to retract.... I also make sure that it is not looking like a cheerleader motion lol!!! If it's rumba use the whole QQS to utilize motion in your arms and core.