> More specifically, in cha basic when you're
> going into a forward break on the 2:
> You settle the right hip on 1 step

Well technically, after the step is placed, not at the same time. Think of the hip action as happening on the "&" of 1.

> Move your weight forward, turning left
> foot out, and settle left hip as you move
> on the 2

Again, after the 2... on the "&" count.

> does your body weight go completely forward

This is what is known as a forward "check", and generally we do not transfer full weight on a forward check. I would estimate about 70/30.

> Then bring your weight back and settle
> right hip on the 3.

Again, always settling between steps. Steps are on the "downbeats" (the numbers) and hips are on the "upbeats" (the "&" counts).

> I'm also always confused about what
> happens to the back leg when you step
> forward in the break. Do you straighten
> the back leg as in a walk or is it just
> relaxed and bent when the weight is
> forward on the left leg.

You shouldn't have to straighten the back leg as you move away from it... it should already be straight because you just had weight on it. Remember, it's the weighted leg that's straight. As you move away from it, it should remain straight until the "&" count, at which point you can relax the knee and settle the hip. It should then straighten again immediately prior to receiving weight on the following step.

This is true of almost all movements except for one: The back break. After moving away from the front leg, it does not have to bend in order to allowthe hip to settle. Some people prefer to leave the front leg straight for the entire time it is free of weight. Others prefer to allow it to bend just slightly. Either way is acceptable, as long as you don't bend it too much, resulting in the replacing of weight to a bent knee on count 3.

Good luck!

Sincerely,
Jonathan Atkinson www.ballroomdancers.com