Tap dance is an exciting form of dance that involves dancers wearing special tap shoes. A common style of tap dancing is called “classical tap.” Classical tappers use their arms and upper bodies to blend movements of ballet or jazz into their tap routines. “Hoofers” try to use every part of their shoes to make their feet sound like drums.

Typical tap classes last about an hour, beginning with a warm-up to stretch the muscles of the legs and feet. Dancers practice a series of basic steps, adding more difficult combinations as they become more proficient. Tap dancing is a vigorous form of dance, requiring a great deal of physical fitness. It builds aerobic fitness as well as muscle control.