Pop music used to tackle child obesity

Chester children are being encouraged to dance their way to good health by a university student.

Northgate Arena has brought in University of Chester preforming arts student Keeley Gordon to deliver fitness classes with a difference for youngsters aged six to 12.

Keeley delivers a dance class, using a range of styles adapted from modern pop videos.

Northgate's Jon Kelly says it's the perfect way to keep youngsters motivated while doing exercise and tackles the growing issues of childhood obesity.

More than 30 youngsters are now taking part in the weekly sessions at Northgate and Christleton gyms.

Keeley, a third year student who hopes to become a performing arts teacher when she graduates next year, said: "Dancing is getting lots of television exposure at the moment with shows such as Celebrity Come Dancing. The kids don't look at the classes as exercise. They perform a range of movements which are adapted from pop, hip hop and street videos. Because it's completely different from traditional dance classes like ballet it's also attracting boys."

Classes take place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Contact Northgate Arena on 01244 377086 for further details.