Teens in ball gowns and tuxedos tackling the Lambeth Walk, Salty Dog Rag, the Tango and the Waltz! They're stepping back in time, dancing the dances of their parents' and grandparents' day. Why?
Is dancing these "old" dances a history or social studies activity for students in Finland's high schools? Or does it fall under physical education?
Ballroom dancing is certainly popular in the USA - at least as a spectator sport, judging by the ratings of the TV show "Dancing with the Stars".
Not for fun only, ballroom dancing gets you moving and is a good way to stay in shape and lose weight - remember Marie Osmond when she started the season! And how about Kirsti Alley? Mind you, they did more than the waltz to slim up.
And how about the First Lady of the United States, president Obama's wife Michelle? She's been working a national program to fight childhood obesity with the slogan "Let's Move!"
Seems the USA isn't the only country having to deal with a growing obesity health issue; Finland has been fighting the problem since 2005, when health professionals warned that "the increase in obesity among Finnish children and youth is seen as a major public health problem." (Helsingin Sanomat 6.4.2005).
Not sure how fit the classic waltz will get you...Finnish schools might do well to add some sassy Latin American dance classes to the curriculum! That'll get 'em movin'!
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