Aerobics Guidelines

Although aerobic dance has become a popular form of exercise, no one organization has been universally accepted as the regulatory body. Hence many different organizations (medical, governmental, fitness) are introducing guidelines or certification programs to promote safety and enhance fitness. The most recent example are the guidelines announced by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists at its annual convention.

There is little recognition that the aerobic dance industry has had guidelines that have been published and taught in certification courses for more than two years.

A study of 141 dance instructors who attended an Aerobics and Fitness Assn. of America certification course indicated that their injury rate was approximately half (36.9%) the injury rate reported in previous studies (75%). Over the last year, aerobic dance professionals have continued to improve the dance routines, aerobic dance shoes and aerobic dance surfaces. Until all organizations can agree, I believe that aerobic dance enthusiasts should follow these simple guidelines:

1--Take classes from certified instructors.

2--Wear quality aerobic dance shoes.

3--Exercise on a good aerobic dance surface.

HERMAN FALSETTI MD,

medical director

Health Corp.

Laguna Niguel