Ballroom
The success of Strictly Come Dancing has made ballroom dancing more popular than ever. Ballroom has shaken of its old fashioned image, and classes are popping up all over the country, as singles and couples learn how to waltz, tango and foxtrot. It's suitable for all fitness levels, but it's more energetic than it looks – last year John Sargeant lost two stone when he took part in Strictly.
Salsa
Salsa dancing has been popular for several years, and most towns and cities have regular salsa nights. The fast tempo means that this is one of the most physically energetic dances, so it's a great way to improve your fitness. You don't need to bring a partner, and it doesn't take long to learn how to shake your booty Latin style!
Street Dance
Street dance describes any type of dance that evolved outside of formal studios, in places such as nightclubs, streets and school playgrounds. It usually combines hip-hop and funk moves, performed to R&B tunes and hip-hop beats. It's a great way to get your pulse racing, burn calories and learn some new moves to impress your friends.
Belly Dancing
Belly dancing started out in the Middle East and combines influences from Egypt, Turkey, Greece and Lebanon. It works the whole body, but is particularly good for increasing flexibility and toning the waist, hips and legs. Belly dancing classes tend to be informal and fun – it's also a great choice if you're not used to exercise or have a fuller figure.
Ballet
Ballet dancing can be practised at any age, and will improve posture, increase flexibility, tone muscles and burn fat. Ballet is one of the most challenging forms of dance, as it demands precision and elegance. Balance, alignment and coordination are key, and the stretching exercises are tough. This isn't one for the faint hearted – but it will tone you up like nothing else.
Tap
Tap dancing is a great form of aerobic exercise, and it also helps to tone the legs and bottom. You can expect to burn at least 300 calories in an hour-long class, and after a few sessions you should notice that your thighs lose their jiggle. The steps are repetitive and the beat is so obvious that even the most uncoordinated person will get the hang of it quickly.
Ceroc
Ceroc is a fusion of Jive, Rock 'n' Roll and Salsa, also known as Modern Jive. It's a couples dance performed to music from 40s swing and big band hits, to modern chart classics. Ceroc is a male led dance, but you don't need to go as a couple as everyone swaps partners throughout the class – which means it's a great way to meet new people.
Pole dancing
Pole dancing can help you to get fit, increase flexibility and improve posture – and it's great fun. Most classes will teach you how to climb the pole, which isn't as easy as it looks, along with a few basic moves such as twirling, spinning and swinging. With regular practise, you'll build upper body strength, tone your tummy muscles and increase muscle definition in your arms, bottom and thighs.