WITH Strictly Come Dancing back on our screens, now is the perfect time to dig out those dancing shoes and give it a go yourself. Dancing is a great way to get fit and meet lots of new people. Just 30 minutes a day of moderate intensity exercise (an activity that makes your heart beat a little faster), like dancing, can have massive benefits. It will help to keep cholesterol levels and blood pressure within healthy ranges as well as aid weight loss - all of which improve heart health. In the UK, only 40% of men and 28% of women do the recommended amount of exercise, so get those feet moving. You could try:

Dance classes - There are dance classes all over the country teaching a whole array of dances like ceroc, salsa, bollywood, bellydancing, jive, hip hop, modern, tap, ballroom and many more.

Dance DVDs – These provide all the benefits of going to a dance class without having to leave your house. You can even do it in your pyjamas if you fancy, or if you don't want to spend money on a DVD you could just blast out your favourite tunes, it's just as good.

Strictly come dancing nights - If you love the series then why not recreate your own. Invite some friends over, create your own routines and mark each other like proper judges.

Dance mats - These can plug into your TV or game consoles and are great fun. Get together with friends and family and challenge them to a dance off.

It doesn't matter what dance you decide to do, just get your feet moving to the rhythm and your heart and body will soon reap the benefits.

For more information and advice about healthy living, contact Heart Research UK

on 0113 297 6206 or email lifestyle@heartresearch.org.uk.