Often, people forget that dance is a fantastic form of exercise! They may feel that dancing is for kids, but that is so far from the truth!
Dancing has so many physical, intellectual, mental, and social benefits, including:
- improves balance, strength, coordination, posture, and flexibility
- improves memory and cognitive function (learning new steps)
- releases so many “feel-good” chemicals in your brain as you dance along to fantastic tunes
- improves community and sense of belonging as you meet new people and move through your dance classes together
While you can find a variety of adult dance classes at your local dance studio, the Royal Academy of Dance, an international ballet program, has a program for seniors called Silver Swans. It is a set syllabus designed specifically to improve the quality of life for seniors in all ways, and teachers have to become certified to teach it. For more information, check out this link: https://www.royalacademyofdance.org/en-ca/dance-classes-and-workshops/become-a-silver-swan/
Step Above Dance is located in St. Thomas on Talbot Street and currently offers: Silver Swans, adult mat Pilates, Broadway dance, and tap. We regularly offer different classes to appeal to a wide range of interests. There are many other dance-type programs offered in St. Thomas for adults. A quick Google search and you will be on your way to better health!
Contributed by Jacqueline Reichenbach – local dance and music teacher
BMus, BEd, RAD RTS, ARCT
