Dance - health benefits

There are many forms of dance, from ballroom to barn dancing and disco to Morris dancing.

Dance has always been a part of human culture, rituals and celebrations#

Today, most dancing is about recreation and self-expression, although it can also be done as a competitive activity.

Dancing can be a way to stay fit for people of all ages, shapes and sizes. It has a wide range of physical and including: better social skills. You can dance in a group, with a partner, or on your own.

There are lots of different places where you can enjoy dancing, for example, at dance schools, social venues, community halls and in your own home. Dancing has become such a popular way to be active and keep fit, that most fitness clubs now offer dance classes in their group exercise programs.

Dancing can be done both competitively and socially#

It can be a great recreational and sporting choice, because anyone of any age can take part. It doesn’t matter whether it is cold or raining, as dancing is usually done indoors. The gear you need for dancing will depend on the style of dancing you choose.

For example, tap dancing will involve buying tap shoes, however many forms of dance do not need special equipment or footwear.

To get started, simply choose a style you enjoy, or would like to try, look online for dance schools in your local area and join a class. There are many styles of dance to choose from, each with its own attractions.

Popular styles of dancing include:

• mostly performed to classical music this dance style focuses on strength technique
• flexibility. – this involves a number of partner-dancing styles such as the waltz
• swing foxtrot
• rumba tango. – originating in the Middle East this dance style is a fun way to exercise

It involves dancing with a vertical pole, and requires muscle endurance, coordination, and upper- and lower-body strength. – involving a mixture of Caribbean, Latin American and African influences, salsa is usually a partner dance and emphasizes rhythms and sensuality. – a type of folk dancing where 4 couples dance in a square pattern, moving around each other and changing partners.

– focuses on timing and beats. The name originates from the tapping sounds made when the small metal plates on the dancer’s shoes touch the ground.

When choosing a dance style, ask yourself questions such as:

• Do I want to dance to improve my fitness? Am I trying to improve my flexibility
• coordination? Do I prefer fast dancing or slow dancing? Do I want to dance with a partner
• or on my own? Do I want to join a group
• or have private lessons? Will I enjoy competitions
• or do I want to dance just for fun? If you are thinking of taking up dancing
• suggestions include
• are over 40 years of age or are unfit

Wear layers of clothing that you can take off as your body warms up. Do warm-up activities before you begin a dance session. before, during and after dancing.

Make sure you rest between dance sessions#

Don’t push yourself too far or too fast, especially if you are a beginner. appropriate to your style of dance. Check with your dance instructor that you are holding the correct form., especially if you are already tired.

Perform regular leg-strengthening exercises.

Move as fluidly and gracefully as you can#

Cool down after a dance session, including stretching. About dance Dancing is an enjoyable way to be more physically active Health benefits of dancing mental benefits improved condition of your heart and lungs increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness increased aerobic fitness improved muscle tone and strength weight management stronger bones and reduced risk of osteoporosis better coordination, agility and flexibility improved balance and spatial awareness increased physical confidence improved mental functioning improved general and psychological wellbeing greater self-confidence and self-esteem Getting started with dancing Types of dance Ballet Ballroom dancing Belly dancing Hip-hop Jazz Pole dancing Salsa Square-dancing Tap dancing Choosing a dance style General tips for dancing See your doctor for a check-up if you have a medical condition, are overweight Drink plenty of water Wear professionally fitted shoes Sit and watch new dance moves first.

Learning new moves increases your risk of injury

Where to get help#