Dance teacher Patrick Nebre takes a student on a spin around the dance floor. Pic: Lwin Mg Mg

MONSOON is almost over, which means the end of hibernation and the start of the beach season. Getting back into shape is going to be a top priority soon, but how do you develop a fitness routine when you have the energy and motivation of a slug?

Getting fit and shaping up need not be the boring, strenuous task many people think it is.

One of the best workouts that doubles as a fun hobby is ballroom dancing. Salsa and tango your way to a flat stomach and have a laugh while you’re at it.
The Summit Parkview Hotel offers dance lessons to singles and couples with famous Yangon dance teacher Patrick Nebre.

“Dancing is an excellent way to lose weight and release stress and tension,” says Patrick. “Some of my students come to get fit and others just want to learn to dance. If you want to get fit, it is crucial that you do it at least two times a week and practice at home.”

Patrick started dancing when he was seven years old. He attended a dance school in his hometown in the Philippines and in 1998 he became a professional dance teacher. In 2003, he made the move to Myanmar.

After four years, Patrick has built up a school of more than 100 students, which includes locals, diplomats and foreigners. Ten lessons cost US$150.
“Whether you become a good dancer depends upon individual talent,” said Patrick. “On average, it takes six months to a year to get to a professional level.”
It's not just exercise that keeps you fit and healthy, he says, you need to follow a balanced diet.

“I eat a lot, but I dance for five hours a day,” he says. “If you can’t burn it off, the best thing to do is to avoid carbohydrates and get five servings of vegetables a day.”

If dancing isn’t really your thing, but you find that motivating yourself is a struggle, opt for a personal trainer.

Ko Lu Lu, 24, has spent the past three years working for the Wan Htone Hotel in Bangkok as their onsite personal trainer and has recently returned to Yangon to work for the Grand Mee Ya Hta. He takes part in local bodybuilding contests and won the title of Mr Hot Bod 2006.

Right now, Ko Lu Lu is training eight students.

“I train people who are trying to gain weight and some who are trying to lose it,” he says. “As well as exercise and weight training, I give nutritional advice. To gain weight it is best to eat a lot of carbs, meat and bananas, but avoid cholesterol, and spend around two hours three times a week working on gaining muscle. To lose it, you must work out for two hours every day to see a noticeable improvement.”

Ko Lu Lu can come to you for only 30 FEC per month. You can work out with him for two hours, four times a week, or contact the Grand Mee Ya Hta for a gym membership.

If you think you can make it on your own, check out Traders Health Club for a variety of activities that you can do all by yourself. For US$100 per month, you will have access to the gym, which includes cardio and weight machines, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, steam rooms and classes. The price will be discounted if you join for longer.

“There are three types of members,” says Ko Gary, a supervisor at the club. “One is here to improve their health and fitness level, one is here for weight loss and the other is here to gain weight with muscle mass.”

Traders do not provide a diet program, but Ko Gary promises that results will be seen after two to three months with the help of their staff.

For something more spiritual, try yoga. Golden Hill Tower offer classes on Monday and Thursday evenings with Australian yoga guru Melissa Taylor. Phone 500 115 for more information.

Whichever option you decide to go for, the most important thing to consider is which type of fitness is best for your health. See your doctor to check your blood pressure and cholesterol levels beforehand.