No surprise, given the popularity of shows like Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance, but dancing has become one of the hottest hobbies and sports -- yes, sports -- in the world today!!

Would you believe that a non-profit organization called USA DANCE is an affiliate member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and is recognized by both the USOC and the International DanceSport Federation (IDSF) as the National Governing Body of DanceSport in the United States? (DanceSport is the competitive version of ballroom dancing.)

What does this have to do with you?

My dating friend, whether lady or gent, you need to get your booty out there on that dance floor and kick up those heels, because dancing is where it's at for today's dynamic duos.

The benefits of dancing are amazing both for you as an individual as well as in your coupling efforts.

Let's look at a few of them:

General Benefits

First, ballroom dancing gives you an enhanced appreciation of music and its rhythms. It will help your sense of balance, and promote more fluid movement in your walking and running.

You'll make new types of relationships with others. Dancing with a partner in harmony gives you a more open, understanding, responsive, and supportive relationship both with your partner as well as with others. Overall, your outlook on life will become more positive.

Physical Benefits

Dancing is a great body conditioner, even if you can only manage to do it once a week. But if you can dance two or three times a week, you'll increase your stamina, you're your heart stronger, strengthen your legs, and generally tone your body. And as mentioned above, you'll become more balanced, fluid, and flexible.

Mental Benefits

Mentally, dancing serves as a wonderful stress relief. A pressure-cooker day melts away when the evening eases you into the arms of your dance partner. Sleep that night is sound and sweet.

Becoming a competent dancer also provides an excellent learning experience in discipline, goal setting, planning, achievement, assuredness, self-confidence and pride in your abilities. These favorable attributes transfer into all other areas of your life as well. The payoff can be significant!

A third benefit involves that old saying "use it or lose it."

Learning and remembering the many steps and movements required of the various dances provide a significant mental challenge and a constant stimulant to the brain. Surely this is why avid dancers usually remain mentally alert, regardless of age.

Social Benefits

A good dancer is a definite plus to social occasions -- especially you men. If a man takes the time to become a skilled and confident, but not overly forceful leader, his presence is appreciated by every lady in the room. A good dancer does not need to be handsome to be popular. Similarly, a lady who is a good dancer radiates grace and charm, regardless of whether she is a physical beauty.

In both your business and professional life, you'll be amazed at how your ability to dance affects your popularity and attractiveness to people of both sexes. And these days, with dancing as popular as it is, it is almost essential to be able to dance well in order to truly function at many social occasions.

When adults become involved with ballroom dancing they meet many new people who have a similar interest and develop lasting friendships with many of them. Many dancers say that ballroom dancing adds an entirely new and very beneficial dimension to their life.

In sum? Learn to dance: it is a valuable skill that will enhance your life in every way.