Little girls love dancing. Mainly because of the pink tutus and shoes they can wear. But why should you stop dancing when you get older?

At a tap dancing class in Gateshead, the pupils range from their early twenties to late sixties. Although all women, they come from different walks of life. Some are teachers, others are office workers, business owners, and a number are retired. But for an hour every week, based in a community centre, they are all the same – women wanting to stay fit and active.

The ability of the dancers is mixed – some having danced before, while others were beginners when they started, but have picked up the steps quickly and effortlessly. Although following the International Dance Teachers Association (IDTA) syllabus, the class is all in the name of fun and keeping fit.

And by making up their own dances, there is something for everyone to join in with. Some people might not like the idea of dancing, or think it will be too hard or strenuous. But with tap dancing, you do not have to move quickly, jump high or stretch muscles you did not know existed. Instead, you can do it at your own pace, and only do what you are comfortable with and there is always the option of sitting out for a dance or two.

Just marking through the steps and keeping up with the music is enough to increase the heart rate, and that is all you need to achieve when trying to live a healthy lifestyle.