Cardiovascular Benefits of Learning Waltz Steps

I'm always surfing the Internet for interesting information on waltz steps.

Now, I'm a runner. I like running. The benefits of running have been well-documented. But the truth is that running isn't always a lot of fun. In fact, it's often a drag. You have to put in A LOT of mileage to reap the benefits.

So I was very intrigued to read that:

Italian researchers have found that just 21 minutes of dancing (including waltz steps), three times a week, can match the cardiovascular benefits from working out on a treadmill or bicycle.

If I'm running a slow 10-minute mile, 21 minutes gets me two miles. That's just putting one foot in front of the other. No twirls or lifts or dips. And it's just me.

It's no wonder the learning dance moves like waltz steps is becoming more and more popular.

One dance enthusiast put it this way:

"I don't like to exercise," he says. "I hate it. But if I'm dancing, I don't care how tired I am. When I hear the music and see the women, I can just push myself and it feels wonderful."

To read the full NPR article about the benefits of dancing visit: NPR article.