Jenny Craig article about dancing

Dance! It's good for your health - mind, body and soul. Dancing for one hour can burn over 500 calories (based on a 150-pound person). Besides weight loss, boogie for lower blood pressure, reduced stress, increased energy, better muscle tone and coordination, and stronger bones. And when you're not out kicking up your heels on the dance floor, you can trip the light fantastic all by yourself. Just choose your favorite dance, or learn a new one. Here are some of your many choices. Belly dancing class This centuries-old dance form uses muscles even aerobic sessions miss, like the diaphragm, pelvis and shoulders. It's perfect for people with joint issues, because while aerobic, belly dancing is easy on the joints. Women are finding that there's nothing like belly dancing to build a beautiful body, shapely abs and self-confidence. You don't have to be a couple to join a ballroom dancing class; many arrive alone and pair-ups happen once you're there. While you're busy burning calories (250 to 400 calories can be burned per hour, depending on the style of dance), you're also improving memory skills by memorizing steps and working with a partner. The salsa, samba, tango and cha-cha are just a few of your choices, and they're all great for toning legs. As far apart as hip hop and boot scootin' country line dancing are, they have a lot in common when it comes to health benefits. You might find classes in both at the same location, so mix it up if you're feeling adventurous. Both are great for enjoying the social scene. Dance halls often offer free classes before the "let's dance the night away" crowd arrives. Then stick around to get on the floor and show off your new moves. Aerobic dance gives you the most cardiovascular and weight loss benefits, burning up to 550 calories per hour. This form of dance is a great way to lower your risk of coronary heart disease, the #1 killer of women in the U.S. It's easy to find a class at the gym that fits your schedule. Or, buy one of the many popular DVDs available and dance in your living room.