Do you know that, apart from the shear enjoyment derived from ballroom dancing, that it is actually good for you physically, emotionally, and mentally??? Dancing requires thinking on your feet (literally), involving cognitive thought processes and coordination, not just reflexive motions. For women especially, ballroom dancing is both an aerobic and weight-bearing activity, which means you burn calories (150-300/hour) and assist your body in keeping bone density in check. Your stamina increases, as does your flexibility. When your heart is pumping steadily for 20 minutes at a Viennese Waltz, Quickstep, or Jive tempo, your brain releases "feel-good" endorphins, which are similar to the "runner's high," a very relaxed, serene state. Ballroom dancing certainly covers all the angles! Ballroom dancing uses almost all of your large muscle groups, especially your legs. Look at Ann-Margret, Raquel Welch, and Shirley MacLaine. Now those are great legs, and all of them are over 50. And don't forget Gene Kelly, Buddy Ebsen, Fred & Ginger, and Juliet Prowse. They, too, looked terrific in their latter years. So, get up and boogie! You won't regret it. (RC's body of fitness knowledge: 1975-2005)