Waltzes, tangos, sambas, and foxtrots are gliding across America’s living rooms. That hit dancing show is generating not only good ratings, but also serious sparks between the contestants. (We hear last season’s runners-up just moved in together!) It’s not just TV magic. We think there’s no better way to create romance, feel more connected—and get tighter buns—than ballroom dancing.
Dancing is a form of self-expression, but when you dance together it’s an expression of your partnership. Whether it’s a happy and joyous foxtrot or a sexy, sensuous samba, each dance style represents different emotions that bond you together. Add to that the very physical handholding and body rubbing, throw in some intense eye contact, and you have the choreography for romance.
Ballroom dancing can burn 400 to 600 calories per hour, but did you know that some experts say it can also increase your cognitive ability? Whether that’s true or not, we say if you choose to do something that brings the two of you closer together and improves your overall health and well-being, you’re already pretty smart.
Here are a few great schools where you can get your dance on:
Fred Astaire Dance Studios
West Side: 174 W. 72nd St.; 212-595-3200
Midtown: 303 E. 43rd St.; 212-697-6535
East Side: 328 E. 61st St.; 212-209-2410
Dance Chelsea
127 West 25th St., 4th floor; 917-606-0289
Sandra Cameron Dance Center
199 Lafayette St.; 212-431-1825
And if you’re too embarrassed to parade your four left feet in public, Start Dancing NYC will come to your home!
