John Sweeny wrote:
>
> Yes, people always used to interlock their thumbs - that is
> how I was first taught it many, many years ago.
>
> But the dancing has changed. What has happened is that
> people now like to spin out of Allemandes; and Rory O'Mores are more
> prevalent, where you spin out of an Allemande-type hold. If someone has
> locked my thumb I can't spin! You say that it is easy to disengage when
> the thumbs are interlocked. That is not my experience. I really, really
> hate it when people hold on to me so that I can't enjoy the dancing. It
> is definitely easier to disengage if the thumbs aren't interlocked.
>
> Dance styles evolve, and this is an example of a good change
> as far as I am concerned.
>
> Let's all work on getting rid of thumbs from dancing! :-)
>
Ron Nelson adds:
I could not agree more. As one who suffers from arthritis in my hands, I can
testify that the thumb is particularly susceptible to abuse and subsequent pain.
I try to avoid any grip which might entrap and discomfort.
