Lifestyle

STEP UP

Your cheap and easy way of getting fit whilst having fun!

IF the monotony of sweating it out on the treadmill doesn’t appeal to you, then why not try a dance class? With help from the popularity of TV shows like Strictly Come Dancing and Strictly Dance Fever, dance is becoming one of the hottest forms of exercise, with everyone wanting to get in on the act.

Dance is a great work out, with just an hour a week enhancing general fitness and toning those muscles. Statistics show that that a 10st 7lb person can burn 3.5 calories a minute by ballroom dancing; so the good news is that in under an hour, you can burn off that sneaky Dairy Milk!

But I’m not just talking about dancing around your handbags on a Saturday night. There are many styles of dance for you to choose from, from Salsa to Ballet, Tap to Jazz. Amilia Alba of the Carmen Maria Academy of Dance, explains that Jazz is perfect for beginners as it is a less intense discipline than Ballet, Tap, or Modern dance. “Jazz can help get you fit and learn a skill, at the same time as being a fun, social activity. It’s also a great confidence booster!”

And dance is no longer just the domain of the girls; with the help of sporting legends like Mark Ramprakash, Matt Dawson and Kenny Logan donning their spangly outfits on Strictly, the guys are shunning stereotypes, realising the benefits and getting involved too, especially in classes like street and break dance.

So, what are you waiting for?! Unlike other activities, dance doesn’t come with a hefty price tag; there’s no expensive kit to buy, all you need is yourself. So if you want a bum like Kelly Brook, there’s no excuse - get involved!

The University of Liverpool’s Sport and Fitness Centre run three dance classes: Street Dance (Fridays 12-1pm), Belly Dancing (Thursdays 1-2pm), and Salsa (Wednesdays 7.30-8.30pm). Call for prices 0151 794 3307 (members have free access to most classes)

Quick calorie counter:
1 pint of beer: 182 cals
Or 1 large glass white wine (250ml): 185 cals
Equals one hour dancing!

1 McChicken Sandwich 379 cals
2 slices Domino’s pizza (cheese and tomato) 250 cals
Two hours dancing (but, let’s face it, probably a little less if it’s dancing like a maniac, in heels, in The Razz)

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