Are you one of the millions who've gotten hooked on ABC's hit show "Dancing with the Stars?" In this show, celebrities enter a multi-week dance competition and train with professional dancers to compete in a dance competition.

Many viewers who follow the show faithfully have observed contestants become more physically fit in the process. The contestants themselves report weight loss and improved stamina over the course of the show's season.

You may be surprised that something as gentle and graceful as ballroom dancing could have this effect. After all, those old-fashioned waltzes performed by Ginger Rodgers and Fred Astaire didn't seem all that taxing.

Well, Fred and Ginger just made it look easy! The truth is that ballroom dancing is quite strenuous and physically challenging. Many professionals believe it should be considered an Olympic sport on a par with ice skating and gymnastics. Depending on the dance steps and intensity, you could burn anywhere from 300 to 700 calories per hour by dancing to your favorite tunes. 

The message here is simple. The sad reality is that many of us don't look forward to our daily exercise regime and one reason may be that we are doing exercise activities we really don't enjoy.

Find something you look forward to doing as part of your week. You're much more likely to succeed at it and continue doing it long term. Dancing is perfect because it taps your creativity as well as your physical skill. You even get a buddy to keep you motivated and share the fun of exercising.