Health Feature for London Lite-Mon 1st Sept (They edited it slightly to make me sound as wacko as Jacko)

King of Pop meets King of Bop
As a child of the ‘80s, I salute the man who made crotch grabbing socially acceptable for the under tens. Although, in recent years, the previous accomplishment has soured somewhat, it is impossible to deny Michael Jackson's contribution to music over the last 5 decades.
He moonwalked into the world 50 years ago and his music may not have healed the world but it certainly has made it a better place. He has chosen to celebrate his half century by releasing a new collection of his best work: The King of Pop. The public voted for their all time favourite hits across the world and each country has released a unique album of 17 tracks.
How should one personally commemorate such an occasion? By attending Anthony King's dance class at Pineapple Studios in Covent Garden of course. If you are wondering who he is then you are not in the know. Anthony King is a celebrity choreographer who specialises in Jacko; he has also written a book and released a DVD- Anthony King’s Thriller Dance Workout. He has been touted in the media as ‘the next big thing’. My hopes were high; would my cellulite take a leaf out of Michael's book and beat it?
I got to the venue early to chew the aforementioned fat with Anthony before the class began. I learnt that there is a reason for his interest in MJ: His stepbrother worked for Jackson, so while we were all practising the infamous “HeeHee” manoeuvre in our bedrooms, he was watching it for real. It was clear from our initial handshake that Anthony King has the passion. He is dynamic, enthusiastic and charismatic. His favourite MJ song is Wanna be Startin’ Somethin’ and he certainly seems capable of this.
Pineapple Dance Studios fitted perfectly with the required 80s ambience. It is a rabbit warren of studios brim full with people with sinewy limbs and lots of energy. One thing to be prepared for though is the heat. It is a hot bed of creatvity and perspiration!

Warm up
We had a good turn out for a Wednesday night and you immediately felt included. Anthony made a point of talking to everyone and addressing them personally once the class got under way. We warmed up with some intense jogging on the spot. Watching my thighs jiggle in the mirror was not a high point but it got the blood flowing. Ironically enough, the overall routine was based to Beat It but Anthony said that every class is different so, if you go regularly, you will be treated to an array of hits.
Session
We carefully and slowly built up an intricate routine over the hour. Anthony took time to explain each section, modelling what he meant and then giving us the opportunity to practice before we attempted to put it to the music.This was all well and good for those with some semblance of rhythm, but I had distinct difficulties with my motor skills as the moves became progressively complex. This wasn't a problem though; Anthony gave everyone encouraging feedback. Even though I was much less coordinated than most, I still felt pretty damn good as we frenetically moved to the infectious beats. However inept you are, it is impossible not to enjoy yourself. Anthony is not afraid to be the man in the mirror either, he is an exceptionally talented dancer who is mesmerizing to watch. By the end of the class, I was sweaty and exhilarated. I had even kind of mastered the routine in my own special way.
Benefits
Anthony believes that dance allows you to gain a physical and psychological high very quickly. In his high-energy class, he is not wrong! Dance movements are multi directional and therefore good for your joints. The weight bearing and varied moves can improve bone density. Dancing is also good for balance and agility. The process releases toxins and alleviates stress. Regular participation can reduce your heart rate, lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels. You can't really argue with all of that, can you?
Verdict
If you are after a fun way to improve your fitness and love all things MJ then this class is perfect. It is not pretentious or intimidating; no-one wants to take anything too seriously apart from the music.
So did I fulfil my need to celebrate Jackson's 50th? Definitely. Was I any good? Hmm… When asked on his thoughts regarding the white gloved one, Bob Geldof said: "When Michael Jackson sings, it's with the voice of angels, and when his feet move you can see God dancing." I would like to say that I exhibited some vaguely similar qualities but if I did, I would be telling atrocious porky pies.


Michael Jackson Style Dance Class- Pineapple Dance Studios, Mon/Wed 6-7, Sat 3-4.

For more information on Anthony King- www.anthony-king.com