"I just can't do this," said a second, as the tempo increased.

And others gave up, preferring to watch their fellow swingers make mistakes. Some groups decided against the "old time stuff" and tried to slam dance instead. A few even attempted the Virginia Reel and began skipping and "do-si-doing" around the room.

But others quickly picked up the swinging moves. Some couples, in fact, even added twirls and loops to their "one--two--three, back/forward" routine.

By the end of the two-hour session, in fact, even those who were inclined to just stand and laugh were showing improvement, although some were still confusing the swing with the tango or the rhumba.

"I don't know why we can't have a sexier dance," complained one Lowell House man to his partner. "This is hard and not that great." His partner, however, who was picking up the swinging moves faster than he, returned, "Well, you just have to fake it, you know."

To spice up the swing for those looking for fancy moves, Lee taught the group "the Pretzel." "It was so hard," Oliver said. "You were with your partner and had to twist up and turn around about ten million times--well maybe only a few, but it was very complicated. Fun, though."

"I'm definitely glad I went," Oliver said. "Now, at least I'll know what to do. The dance will be fun, because swinging is so funny, but I don't like it all that much."

Lee, however, had a word of encouragement for all those who were somewhat disappointed with the swing. "Just remember," he said. "Even if you don't like it, it's always good aerobic exercise."