"You get the benefits of a basic workout using the arms, legs and back," said Sean Gallagher, director of Performing Arts Physical Therapy in New York and spokesman for the APTA. But Gallagher noted that the macarena lasts only a few minutes, so you would have to repeat the tune about 10 times to achieve the 30 minutes of daily moderate activity recommended as a minimum exercise goal in the recent U.S. Surgeon General's Report on Physical Activity and Health.

The macarena, like most dances, allows different levels of exertion, especially during the three jump and quarter-turn movements of the dance. Gallagher said other forms of dance offer similar health benefits, including the electric slide and YMCA dances performed by delegates at the United Center last week.

Aerobic dancing is widely regarded as an efficient workout. A 130-pound woman will burn about 300 to 350 calories during a typical hour class. Sixty minutes of ballroom dancing will churn roughly 250 calories for a 190-pound man and 175 calories for a 120-pound woman. Country line dancing is another popular dance step that is now being incorporated into exercise classes.