Modern ballroom dance, which originated in England in the 1850s, is divided into two subcategories: Latin American and ballroom. The former consists of such sultry favorites as the rumba, merengue, samba, cha-cha and mambo, while ballroom includes the more traditional waltz, tango, foxtrot, swing, boogie and quickstep. Many people dance to compete, others simply to enjoy social occasions.

Since the International Olympic Committee gave it provisional recognition in 1999, ballroom dance has received attention as a true athletic activity. Experts agree that dancing on a regular basis is a cardiovascular activity that can burn the same amount of calories as an intense, twice-weekly aerobic workout routine. Because dancing is considered a low-impact activity, it is accessible to people of all ages and fitness levels.

Ballroom dance is also effective at working leg muscles and building upper-body strength. You’ll work your core muscles and develop a better sense of balance as you concentrate on maintaining proper posture and direct eye contact with your partner. Take one look at the fitness levels and physiques of professional ballroom competitors, trainers and dance teachers, and you’ll understand the benefits of ballroom dance.

Consider the following facts about ballroom dance:

• Dance contributes to increased self-confidence as well as good posture and body alignment.

• Olympic athletes often include dance in their training programs to sharpen their control, agility, speed and balance.

• Out of 60 physical activities evaluated in one study, dance was named one of the top five in aerobic benefit and participants’ willingness to stick with it long-term.

• Dancing involves gentle stretching, creating a wider range of motion.

• A 140-pound person can burn an average of 349 calories in one hour of fast, social dancing and 191 calories in slower styles.

• Dance is a great cardiovascular workout. Your heart will pound as your body swings and sways from hips to shoulders.

• Many doctors recommend thirty minutes of dance, three times per week, for optimal cardiovascular benefits.