Salsa dancers at West Palm Beach library

If you happen to take the elevator this Thursday evening at the Mandel Public Library of West Palm Beach and stop on the third floor, you'll see adults lined up in rows as they learn how to salsa dance.

Instructor Ruben Sanchez will be there, too, guiding students through the paces of the pulsating rhythms of L.A. style salsa.

"It's one of the most common styles to learn, and that style is danced a lot in this area," he said.

All told, five major types of salsa are exist. The styles are: Colombian, popular in Latin and South America; Cuban, where salsa was invented from Afro-Cuban beats; Los Angeles, a flashier style of salsa; Miami, a technically advanced Cuban style of salsa; and New York, a smooth and controlled salsa style.

Sanchez is a certified dance instructor by the Dance Vision International Dance Association. He also teaches dance classes at Green's Dance Studio in North Palm Beach.

He volunteers teaching Latin ballroom dancing at the West Palm Beach library. "I live close by, and I have the free time," said the 40-year-old dance instructor.

It's not necessary to come with a partner because Sanchez separates the men and women, giving everyone a chance to dance. Thursday's class starts at 7:15 p.m.

The top benefits of salsa dancing are socializing, getting good exercise and keeping your mind sharp from learning something new, he said.

His class also includes bachata lessons, a dance style that originated in the Dominican Republic. Bachata is popular in the Latin clubs around the area, Sanchez said.

During Hispanic Heritage Month, running from Sept. 15-Oct. 15 at the library, Sanchez will teach Latin ballroom dancing 10:30-11:30 Tuesday mornings and then 7:15-8:15 pm Thursdays.

Ever try salsa dancing? Let me know in the comments below what's your favorite of the style. Thanks!

And now, for my numbers

I had my best walking day last week on Monday, Aug. 12, 2013, when I walked:

Steps: 9,979

Miles: 5.0