Like it or not, summer is fast approaching and we all know what that means... flashing the flesh, baring our lumps and bumps and being seen in public with just a strip of Lycra to protect our modesty. We investigate fun ways to get in shape for summer.

GOING to the gym is soul-destroying. Fact. Jogging for 40 minutes while watching irritating music videos on MTV, followed by half an hour of sit-ups and weights, is way too much to ask three times a week.

But a sensible diet and regular exercise is the only way of reaching and maintaining a healthy shape.

So how are women across East Lancashire finding fitness with a difference?

Bellydancing

WHY? If you're looking for gentle exercise which is fun and sociable, then bellydancing could well be for you.

And the best bit is that having a wobbly belly is considered a bonus!

Classes teach participants different dance moves, building up to a routine. The exercises are great for those with joint complaints as they loosen you up, and some people with minor back problems have reported improvements in flexibility after starting the exercise.

But, best of all, the exercise will boost your self confidence, said Roshni Clarke, who runs Tarkheena Dance Troupe (it means noble princesses in Turkish) with her sister Greera Norse.

"To be honest, coming just once a week isn't going to make a dramatic transformation of your hips and stomach," said Roshni. "But what bellydancing will do for you is boost your confidence so you feel better about yourself in a bikini. You'll come to the class and see all these other body shapes and think: Well, I've got a better body than her, so if she can do it I can!'"

WHAT WILL I NEED? Loose trousers or skirt and a loose top.

WHERE? Tarkheena Dancers Arabic Dance Troupe run weekly classes in Accrington, Clitheroe and Great Harwood. Call Greera Norse on 01254 701558.

Kickboxing

WHY? A high-intensity exercise with quick results, and you'll be learning useful self-defence moves at the same time as toning your wobbly bits.

Alison Curtis at Accrington-based Kokoboro Kickboxing Gym has recently started a women-only class.

Husband Jason, who runs the gym, said: "Kickboxing is really good for cardiovascular fitness as well as muscle toning. Striking something shocks the muscle and tones it up.

"Complete beginners can come along. People don't have to worry about fighting each other. We don't make people do that.

"Martial arts is definitely a more exciting way of getting fit than going to the gym."

WHAT WILL I NEED? Tracksuit bottoms and a loose top - whatever you feel comfortable in.

WHERE? Kokoboro Kickboxing Gym (part of Northern Dragons Studio), Dale Street, Accrington. Call Alison Curtis on 07715811643.

Pole dancing WHY? The latest exercise craze to sweep the nation has shed its sleazy image as keep fit fanatics discover that grinding round a pole is a lot more strenuous than it looks. A good session can burn more calories than a session in the gym and will provide more muscle tone.

Blackburn-based pole dancing instructor Kath Hartley assures nervous newcomers that they need not be scared.

"We have ladies of all ages coming to the classes. I have a lady of 48 years old who comes and loves it," she said.

"Pole dancing is a fantastic way to get yourself in shape. I'm a grandma at 41 and it's the only thing that keeps me fit. I'm sure if I didn't do it the bits of me that should be heading south, but haven't so far, would start to sag.

"Pole dancing isn't about learning to pole dance in a club - it's just a laugh and a fun way of getting fit. You use muscles you didn't realise you had. You're lifting your whole body off the ground so you're really working your legs and arms."

WHAT WILL I NEED? You need to grip the pole effectively, be able to move freely and feel comfortable. Bare legs are essential - you will slip with tights or trousers on. The ideal outfit is a pair of fairly short shorts and something comfortable but not restrictive on your top half. High heels are optional but give you the strut to help you feel the part.

WHERE? Tabu, Hammerton Street, Burnley, runs group and private classes. Call Leah on 0786 7601176.

Football

WHY? Who says that football is just for boys? Show the lads that you can kick it by taking up the beautiful game.

It's great for toned legs and stamina and is one of the fastest-growing sports for girls.

Blackburn Rovers are looking for girls to join the ladies team and trials are open to all girls aged 16 and over, no matter what your experience.

But if playing the sport competitively sounds a little too much like hard work, why not grab a group of friends and play simply for fun?

WHAT WILL I NEED? Grass or astroturf football boots and a ball.

WHERE? Trials for places in Blackburn Rovers first team and reserve team will be held on Saturday, June 2 and Sunday, June 10, 10am to 12pm, St Bede's High School, Livesey Branch Road, Blackburn. Contact Gemma Donnelly on 01254 296256 or at GDonnelly@rover-mail.co.uk.

Cheerleading

WHY? Cheerleading is no longer just for American teenagers with legs up to their armpits - it's now one of the hottest new exercise classes in the UK.

And it's no wonder. Cheerleading is good for all-over body toning, especially the legs, and so is a great way of getting those pins ready for strutting on the beach.

It's loads of fun, you get to wear great little outfits and it's good for meeting new friends.

Burnley and Pendle cheer group Shell's Belles run classes - and if you're too shy there's even a fitness DVD to do at home.

WHAT WILL I NEED? Loose comfortable clothing and training shoes.

WHERE? Call Michelle Williamson of Shell's Belles on 01282 710190