Combining dance, healing and martial arts

Nia Dancing instructor Isabelle Walker-Lefebvre.

Head into Rochdale on a Saturday night and there will be plenty of revellers busting some moves on the dancefloor. Now one woman is bringing a new dance to the town, and it's not one you will find in the pubs and clubs.

The Nia technique combines dance, healing and martial arts and local teacher Isabelle Walker-Lefebvre is encouraging people from Rochdale to give it a try.

"The technique is designed to lift your mind, body and spirit," explained Ms Walker-Lefebvre. "It brings health and fitness to your body and clears your mind. It is unusual because it caters for your whole body both physically and mentally."

Ms Walker-Lefebvre was at a crossroads in her life when she discovered Nia two years ago. She became a qualified instructor in 2008, having obtained her white belt - similar to karate and judo, belts are awarded to determine a person's level in Nia.

Ms Walker-Lefebvre says that Nia has changed her life, and now she wants others to share the benefits. She is running classes in Rochdale and Littleborough for anyone that wants to give it a go.

She said: "The classes are designed for all fitness levels, all ages and all personalities. Everyone comes together in the same class and works at their own level, which is really good because everyone can learn from each other and share their experiences."

There are currently three classes in the area.

On Fridays at Champions Taekwondo Academy on the Second Floor of the Moss Industrial Estate on Woodbine Street East, from 6.30pm to 8pm, on Wednesdays at Hollingworth Lake Rowing Club from 7pm to 8.30pm, and a six-week course starting at True Serenity on Bury Road later this month.