We all know that we need regular exercise to get or keep our bodies in top shape. Working up a sweat not only helps us burn fat and lose weight, it can protect us from heart disease, diabetes, maybe even some forms of cancer.

But exercising doesn't have to be something you dread doing every day. You can have more fun exercising than you ever thought possible by incorporating dance into your workout regimen.

Dancing is a wonderful way to get your heart pumping and to burn calories while you're having a great time. Moving to music is just something our bodies are built to do, and regular dancing can be an important part of keeping your body in tip-top shape.

Regular dancing can help improve your balance and coordination, protect your bones, increase your confidence, relieve stress and make you sleep better at night. You'll feel sexier and more comfortable in your body when you make it move regularly.

Dance can help you feel more energetic and reduce your anxiety levels. If you dance in the mornings, you can start your day with a smile that will carry you through the day and make the little annoyances you have to deal with seem a little more bearable.

If you have kids, dancing is a wonderful activity that you can do together as a family. Your children will love seeing you dance around and be a little less serious for a change. Dancing gets everyone laughing, making you feel closer as a family as you do something that will improve everyone's health.

Dancing is not as strenuous as running or as complicated as weight lifting, but you'll still find yourself working up a sweat and burning some serious calories as you work through a dance workout. Moving your body the right way will work all the major muscles, improving your posture, strength and stamina as you go through the rest of your day.

The best part is, you don't need any special equipment, training or a gym membership to take advantage of the health benefits of dancing. All you need is some space in your living room, some music or a dance workout DVD, and some clothes you can move in and you'll be ready to go!