STARTING at lakes leisure kendal this month is a new dance fitness class fusing styles from all over the world.

Run by new instructor Sam Horton, the course combines modern and classic disciplines to give participants a rounded introduction to dance and while Patrick Swayze won’t be on hand to give tips it is still a must for fans of the hit 1987 film Dirty Dancing.

Salsa and samba routines promise to keep participants on their toes while a touch of Bollywood has been added to the classes thanks to moves designed to suit modern Indian pop songs and some secret Bollywood props. Other weekly themes include street style and general aerobics.

The class will run every Tuesday from 10.30am-11.20am and costs £4.10 per session. All abilities are welcome and advanced booking is advised.

If an evening slot is more convenient a popular Street Dancing class runs at the centre on a Monday night between 8pm-8.55pm too.

Based on hip-hop, pop music and break-dance moves, these funky sessions use steps taken from urban music videos and cost £4.15 for adults or £3.50 for under 16s.

Something equally as good at boosting fitness, albeit with a little less tempo, is pilates. The workout teaches body awareness, good posture and easy, graceful movement, and has been popularised by stars including Madonna, Jennifer Aniston and Rod Stewart. It can also help alleviate back pains and strains.

Each exercise and stretch is taught and demonstrated at a variety of levels to suit beginners through to advanced participants. Resistance bands or small Pilates resistance balls are used to strengthen, lengthen and tone tight or weak muscles too and it’s a fitness form that’s particularly good for toning abdominal muscles.

A mix of standing and floor work is involved in the Kendal class – just contact the centre for details of the next available course if you fancy it.

Busy mums and dads wanting to take part in any of the classes, or just use the gym, can take advantage of the on-site crèche.

TotZone runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10am-1pm and children aged three and under are welcome to stay for up to two hours. The crèche costs £2.50 for one hour or £3.50 for a two-hour stay.

For more details on all the activities available at lakes leisure kendal call 01539-729777 or visit www.lakesleisur.org.uk/ kendal