Overall fitness - Folk dancing is the perfect exercise. It combines all the positive aspects of intense physical exercise with none of the negative elements. Folk dancing is a low impact activity requiring constant movement and quick directional changes that keep the body in shape. It tones the muscles without causing injury.

Cardiovascular conditioning - As with all regular exercise, folk dancing can lead to a slower heart rate, lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol profile.

Strong bones - The movements of many folk dances can strengthen weight-bearing bones and can help prevent or slow down loss of bone mass (osteoporosis).

Burning off calories - Folk dancing can burn off as many calories as a brisk walk. An hour of folk dancing can burn between 400 and 800 calories.

It's a mental challenge - Modern folk dancing is a mental challenge. Calls have to be remembered. Reacting quickly to the folk dance caller keeps you mentally on your toes. Whilst concentrating on the moves you escape from your worries and every-day pressures.

It's an antidote to depression and loneliness - Folk dancing contains a social component that solitary fitness endeavours do not. It is very tactile, and friendly which contributes to self esteem and a positive outlook.

Rehabilitation - When recovering from heart or knee surgery folk dancing is a positive alternative to aerobic dancing or jogging.

Laughter - Folkdancing is full of fun - laughter is the best medicine!