Dance As Exercise
by Catherine L. Tully

Tired of the same old exercise classes? Why not have some fun while getting fit at the same time? Dance is a terrific way to strengthen muscles, burn calories and challenge your mind as well. Taking a class can be a great addition to your fitness routine. Not sure where to start? Choose from one of the following:

Ballet
Classical music. Graceful movements. Ballet is beautiful, and is the foundation for many other dance styles. Those who are looking for a good workout challenge can start here. Ballet can be demanding, but the results are worth the work. It develops long, lean muscle, and can be studied hand in hand with Pilates, as they have many similar principles.

Modern Dance
For those who like to "do their own thing" Modern can be a good choice. The movements in this style are much more free than in Ballet, and it has become a very mainstream dance form. There are different types of Modern out there, so check and see what the class is like to see if it matches your expectations.

Latin Dance
Smart and sexy, Latin dance uses the hips and has fancy footwork. The music is uplifting and the dances are fun to learn. Salsa is a popular choice, although there are many other types to choose from.

Jazz Dance
Ballet-based, Jazz has a pop-appeal, with more current music and a fun, showy style. Think musicals and you will have a pretty good idea of what it is like.

African Dance
The drum beat gets your heart pumping and this loose, free style is very expressive.

Irish Step Dance
The complicated footwork can be off-putting, but for those who love Irish music it is worth a try. There is a lot of jumping and hopping involved, so it is not for the faint of heart.

Folk Dance
Perhaps not as much of a workout as the others, but a good choice for those just starting out, older participants who do not want a great deal of impact or those who like to learn dances of various cultures.

Capoeria
If you like martial arts and are not sure what dance style you might mesh with--try Capoeria. A mix of martial arts and dance, it is quite a workout.

Ballroom Dance
If you have a partner who is willing, ballroom dance can be a great deal of fun. Learn how to waltz gracefully while getting some social time in too, and a little workout. This style may be easier than some physically, but still provides a little workout along with a good mental challenge.

Tap Dance
Tap is fun! Often done to "show tunes," this form of dance brings forth memories of Gene Kelly and Fred Astaire.

There are many different types of dance out there that you can try. Find a local studio, or check at a community college for classes. Sit in on one to make sure that you like it before joining, and try to spend a minute or two with the teacher if you can to make sure your styles match. Not only can you improve your fitness with dance, but you can have fun doing it and learn a new skill all at the same time!