So you want to shape up and lose some weight. We all know that exercise is really important, but does the idea of a visit to the gym make you run for cover?
Have you thought about dancing? We've listed the different types of dance and the benefits of each.
Street Jazz
Did you know that by doing a Street Jazz class you can burn up to 850 calories per hour. It's a bit like the modern day version of Saturday Night Fever but boy is it fun.
Dress code: Trainers and trousers, loose shirt.
Classes will cost in the region of £5.00 per hour and more information can be obtained from The International Dance Teachers Association.
Salsa
Have you got rhythm in your soul? Salsa dances can be sensuous and can involve a lot of contact with your partner, so make sure you go with someone you like! Dances like the lambada, samba and rumba will help you on your way to burning off a terrific 800 calories per hour.
Dress code: Trainers and trousers, something that will allow freedom of movement.
(Remember to brush your teeth as you get pretty close to your partner!).
Classes cost around £5.00 per hour and further information can be obtained from www.salsa.co.uk.
Strictly Ballroom
Burn up to 500 calories per hour ballroom dancing, it's hard work and you will certainly work up a good sweat. The waltz, the military two-step and the fox trot will ensure that you will become pretty close to your partner for the evening.
Dress code: Smart but casual, when you get really good, invest in a pair of leather shoes to help you glide across the floor.
Classes cost in the region of £4.50 per hour.
Line Dancing
Thank you Madonna for bringing the cowboy hat back into fashion. Burn up to 500 calories per hour and look the part without feeling stupid.Line dancing has a massive following and is hugely underrated, such good fun.
Dress code: Has to be the boot cut jeans and hat, when you get really good you can invest in some cowboy boots.
Classes cost anywhere between £3.00 - £4.00 per hour.
If you want to get some practice in before you go, buy yourself a line dancing video.
Ceroc
This is the French form of Rock and Roll dancing. It hit our country in the 1980's and has just started to take off. You are guaranteed to burn up to 700 calories per hour as you twist and twirl the night away.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable
Cost varies between £4.00 - £5.00 per hour depending on the area. For more information you can visit the Ceroc website at www.ceroc.com
Dancing is a great way to meet other people, have some fun and get fit.
All local classes can be found in the phone book or try surfing the net. Within a few weeks you will look back and wonder what you did before you discovered the secret of dancing.
Go on, get fit and enjoy yourself and who knows you might meet the partner of your dreams!
