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Exercise class combines dance, martial arts  by Amy D. Hovatter College of Health Professions In Swahili, Nia means “with purpose.”   Lowcountry residents are being introduced to this fun and dynamic new exercise that blends martial arts, dance, yoga and meditation.   Instructor Amy Hovatter demonstrates some of the graceful ballet movements which are combined with other aerobic arts to show off the strengthening benefits of Nia, an exciting new, non-impact aerobic exercise. The program is now being offered at the Wellness Center.  Nia is said to awaken the senses and utilize visualization techniques accompanied by an enlightening variety of music for optimal movement.   MUSC students, faculty, staff and community members may discover Nia at the MUSC Wellness Center. Continuing hour-long Nia classes will be held on May 20 and June 10. Nia classes will also continue throughout the summer and fall.    Founded in 1983 by Debbie and Carlos Rosas, a pair of California aerobic instructors, Nia is a non-impact aerobic form of systematic exercise. It clears the mind and is an excellent outlet for stress embracing creativity, self-expression and an overall sense of well-being. It provides an effective cardiovascular workout, yet is soothing and strengthening to muscles and joints.   Nia is based on the most ancient of movement arts, from Tai Chi (self-defense and meditation), to Aikido (holds, locks, energy spiraling), to Tae Kwon Do (the study of kicks and punches), to yoga. It also combines the elements of ballet, modern dance, Duncan dance, ethnic dance and jazz. Nia focuses on two key principles that “we all are dancers;  we all are students and teachers.”   This healthy approach to lifelong fitness contains elements of aerobic conditioning, muscle toning, body sculpting, yoga, stretching, diaphragmatic breathing, without using external weights and without causing the body to leave the floor.   Medically approved as one of the safest forms of exercise for people of all ages, Nia is taught on three levels of intensity and incorporates the basic fitness elements of strength, endurance, balance, relaxation and flexibility. Students are encouraged to use comfort as their guide when attempting movements during Nia classes.   What about retention rates and Nia? Approximately 85 percent of those who try a Nia class in America stick with it. Students can also progress to white belt, blue belt, brown belt and black belt intensive training and certifications.   For additional information, please contact Hovatter at (843) 792-9429 or via e-mail at hovattad@musc.edu. Visit the national Nia web site at <http://www.nia-nia.com> Editor's note: Hovatter is coordinator of public relations and community education, South Carolina AHEC, and instructor, College of Health Professions. She is also a certified Nia white belt instructor. Upcoming Nia dance classes Saturday, May 20 and June 10: 9:30 a.m., MUSC Wellness Center, Studio A; Tuesday, May 23, May 30, June 13 and June 20: 7 p.m., Alhambra Hall, Old Village, Mount Pleasant. Thursday classes at the Wellness Center will be added in June. Saturday morning classes are held throughout the summer at 9:30 at the Wellness Center.