Last Updated: 10:15 am | Tuesday, October 10, 2006

Beyond pure entertainment, Jerry Springer's extended stay on ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" offers a valuable lesson: Almost anyone can dance.

"The whole idea of 'two left feet' - for most people, that's just in their heads," says Greg Underwood, who teaches swing, Latin and ballroom dancing in his Covington home and at community classes, such as Kenton County's "Get Up and Dance!"

For those who get cold feet when the music starts, Underwood, an instructor for 24 years, offers a beginner's guide to cutting the rug:

Easiest dance to learn: Basic foxtrot or waltz. Slower dances give you more time to think about your feet. Foxtrot is a lot like walking.

Toughest: West Coast swing. You have to have the right connections with your partner, the right tension, so you can feel your partner moving. But once people learn it, it's usually their favorite.

Difference between East Coast and West Coast swing: East Coast is kind of done all over the place - in the round. West Coast swing is done in a slot.

Most aerobic dances: Swing and salsa.

Most popular: It's a toss-up between swing and salsa. There is a huge Hispanic population in the Cincinnati area, and people are hearing the music more. Swing has always been big.

Best for older adults: A lot of my students who are in their 80s do rumba or foxtrot. Start with that as a warm-up.

Burns the most calories: Samba and swing.

Partner required for lessons: No. .

Best shoes to learn in: You don't have to wear high heels. You just need a comfortable shoe that's close to your foot and doesn't stick to the floor - not gym shoes.