Activity Focus: Swing Dancing

Because the best way to stay fit is to have fun while working out, we spoke with Linda Marsella, who teaches swing dancing at the Joy of Dance Studio, in Toronto, about the benefits of taking up this energetic dance.

"The great thing about swing is that it is such a fun dance. It can be fast or slow, because there are different types of swing, but the music is always great and upbeat so it really makes you feel good," says Linda, "plus, you get a really good workout from it too."

How easy is it for someone to take up swing dancing if they've never done it before?

It is pretty easy. I think a lot of people tend to think that dancing is harder than it actually is, because it looks so fast paced and kind of tricky, but you just have to start of motivated to learn and realize that it takes a little bit of time to learn how to dance. With swing, there are only a few basic steps and then you are on your way.

What would a beginner find challenging?

The speed might be a bit off-putting at first and it can take time to get used to dancing with a partner. It soon gets easier though with a little practice. You start with a slower tempo and then gradually work your way up to a fast paced jive. 

Do you need to be fit before starting this activity?

No, this is a good activity for someone that wants to get fit, there's a lot of exercise in it and you can use this activity to help you lose weight. We have all kinds of people taking lessons with us, of varying weights and ages. 

What kind of workout do you get from swing dancing?

A really good workout! Dancing swing is a great cardio workout and you burn a lot of calories doing it. 

What kind of equipment do you need for this?

None, just comfortable clothing and a pair of comfortable casual shoes. We don't recommend that people wear runners, because they get stuck to the floor. 

How expensive is it to do this activity?

If you wanted to take a private class for yourself, or yourself and a partner, those start at about $75 an hour and up. Group lessons range from $15 - $18, and there will be 10 or more people to one instructor. 

Lots of places also hold social dances, where you pay a fee to go practice at a club and usually there is a group lesson at the start, and then get to dance for the rest of the night. Swing dancing is a very social activity, it is a great way to meet people and make new friends.