Chicago

The way Jessica Goldman sees it, dancing is a whole lot more than just moving your feet. It’s also a way to promote poise, harness passion, and create positive energy. And she should know: Goldman studied dance for 15-plus years and was a Minnesota Vikings Cheerleader as well as a Chicago Luvabull. At All About Dance, the Lincoln Park dance studio she founded last year, she and her trained staff work with adults and children of all levels to bring out their inner Baryshnikovs, Madonnas or even Justin Timberlakes. Getting nervous even at the thought of putting on a leotard? Don’t. The emphasis of the classes—including jazz, ballet, hip hop, ballroom, and cardio striptease (no there isn’t a pole and no taking off your clothes in class isn’t an option. But at home, well, that’s up to you)—is on having fun and getting a workout. And with a number of the staff having logged in professional cheerleading hours, you can be sure their enthusiasm will help calm your worries.

Photo:  Lisa Shames