Salsa is great for your health; ADVERTISING FEATURE

0 Comments | South Wales Echo (Cardiff, Wales), Sept 26, 2009

LOOKING good and feeling good are two sides of the same coin. Taking out the stresses of a busy life and indulging yourself in health and beauty treatments can set you up for that perfect night out.

A couple of hours at a top hair salon, some time spent getting useful make-up tips, and a good exercise routine through dance are perfect ingredients for feeling great. If you are planning to take that winter break in the sun, a little time spent in a tanning booth before you change into a bathing suit and head to the pool can work wonders.

But remember to spend a few minutes finding out about your skin and sun exposure to avoid stressing your skin.

Looking good and feeling good is also about fitness, and dancing is a fantastic form of exercise. Not only does it raise the heart rate through movement, dancing also tones and tightens the major muscle groups of the body.

Dancing can burn as many calories as walking, swimming or riding a bicycle and one of the most energetic and fun ways of dancing is salsa, with its exciting Latin rhythms. It's also a great way to meet new friends and make new connections.

We all watch Strictly Come Dancing; how would you like to learn how to do those wonderful and exciting twists and movements of your favourite stars? And the best thing about it is that you not only look beautiful and elegant as you sweep across the dance floor, you are also doing wonders for your health.

Welsh salsa champion Irene runs salsa classes for everyone from absolute beginners to those who want to improve their current skills. You don't need to bring a partner or a book, and it's pay as you go so newcomers are always welcome. All you need to do is wear comfortable clothes and shoes with a smooth sole so you can spin easily on the fantastic wooden dance floors.

And if you want to practise at home, or make salsa part of your regular exercise routine, there's a beginner's DVD you can buy for just pounds 14.99.

Irene runs regular salsa classes at Fairwater Conservative Club, Whitchurch Community Church Hall, Pontyclun Athletic Club and on the first Friday of every month at Chiquitos in Cardiff.

This Saturday, September 26, there is a Salsa Party with guest teacher Moe Flex at David Lloyds Health Club, Ipswich Road, Roath, Cardiff, from 7pm to 1am. For more details visit www.salsaconIrene.

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