Not all fitness routines are done in a gym or with sports equipment. And to some, exercise is a boring but necessary chore. Dancing, however, is becoming more and more popular as not only a fun activity, it has multiple health benefits. And just because we’re in a pandemic and distancing, doesn’t mean we can’t dance alone in our homes! Consider the benefits of dancing:
- Strengthening of the bones and muscles
- Reduces stress and depression
- Improvement of balance and coordination
- Increases memory function and sharpens reflexes
- Cardio workout to build heart and lung endurance
- Assists with weight loss and elevates energy
- And when it’s safe to socialize again, we can dance together with friends
What a list of health benefits while having fun! All without a gym membership fee!
Dancing provides an endorphin boost that increases positivity and pleasure. It can bring out creativity unlike performing a repetitive aerobic exercise. It boosts mood, fights depression, and improves outlook. During these distanced times right now, we could all use an inspiring activity. The New England Journal of Medicine suggests there is a 76% reduced risk of dementia with regular dancing.
Even more important, balance becomes a challenge and increases the risk of falling as we age. The Center for Disease Control endorses dancing as a method of stabilizing your balance and avoid a serious tumble. Dancing helps strengthen your muscles, increases your flexibility, and sharpens your brain function which all contribute to avoiding falls and broken bones.
Don’t be shy … anyone can dance, particularly in our own living rooms. There’s a unique dance in each of us. Whether it’s salsa or hip hop or tap or free form movement, it all counts toward improving your health without the boredom of traditional exercise. There are even online video instructions for social dancing (waltz, fox trot, rumba, cha-cha, tango, etc.) to learn now and apply when we are back together again. As with any new fitness routine, please check with a physician first.
So, what are you waiting for? Get smart and bust a move for a healthier, stronger you.
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