Dancing is a great workout for the mind and body. A 150-pound adult can burn about 150 calories doing 30 minutes of moderate social dancing. And by concentrating on your dance steps, you’ll boost brain power by improving memory skills. Dancing builds confidence, reduces stress and tension and provides the social opportunity to meet others.
Dancing can be quite a workout – just watch the reality television show Dancing With The Stars to see the physiques and fitness levels dancers can obtain. If you are less fit, you can vary the level of physical exertion.
Dancing improves agility, balance and coordination. Its multidirectional movements benefit joint mobility and it’s a weight-bearing activity that helps thicken bone density. Dancing can be a mild aerobic workout with the more aggressive dance styles offering excellent cardiovascular benefits. It helps people of all ages and physical abilities get and stay in shape.
In a recent study reported in the Journal of Aging & Physical Activity (July 2013), 40 people in their sixties participated in a dance program twice a week for 12 weeks. At the study’s end, all participants experienced significant health benefits, including lower levels of depression and disability limitations, and marked increases in physical function.
There are many types of dance to explore, from creative ballet to fast-paced Scottish Country Dancing, which is a great aerobic workout. There’s rumba, foxtrot, tango, aerobic dance, square dancing, swing, line dancing, folk (or ethnic) dancing, salsa, flamenco, jazz, hip hop, tap, modern, clogging, and even belly dancing, to name just a few. Ballroom dance is another rigorous activity that uses the larger muscle groups. It’s even a recognized Olympic sport, and may possibly become a medal sport in the Olympic Games.
You can find dance classes at dance schools, health clubs, community recreation centres, YMCAs and even some churches. Also, consider doing your own thing by putting on some music or checking out a dance video on YouTube and dancing around the house. And don’t forget the evening hot spots with a good dance band!
Eve Lees is a health writer and speaker. She was a Personal Trainer and Nutrition Counsellor for 30 years. www.artnews-healthnews.com
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Eve Lees has been active in the health & fitness industry since 1979. Currently, she is a Freelance Health Writer for several publication and speaks to business and private groups on various health topics.