NEW YORK, Feb. 27 -- In 2008, Lady Gaga was encouraging everyone to get down to the sound of her global hit Just Dance. The track is aptly named, since dancing has many health benefits. In fact, a recent American study claims that a good boogie could offer effects comparable to those of running.

Forget squats and dumbbells! To stay in shape, simply get your body moving to the beat of your favorite song. At least, so suggests a study conducted by Aston McCullough, assistant professor of physical therapy, human movement and rehabilitation sciences at Northeastern University, and recently published in the journal PLOS One.

The scientific community has long agreed on the many benefits of dance. This artistic and sporting activity improves c...