Do you like to dance? If so, you can use that preference to better your health, while you have fun.
A few years ago, I belonged to Curves. While this isn’t exactly dancing, Curves uses music to keep the ladies moving. During the periods when we used the step, some of us were rocking it out with our dance moves.
It was during that year that I learned about Zumba. Zumba is basically exercise put to Latin music. With some Latin moves mixed in, it’s fun, sexy and good for you.
The benefits of dancing for us older folks are many. Our aging joints sometimes make heavy exercise painful, if not impossible. Dancing can be less intense, yet still keep us moving. Even slow dancing is better for us than sitting still. Any kind of movement increases the heart rate and exercises our joints.
I’ve noticed that my balance is not as good as it used to be. Since dancing requires balance and control of joints and muscles, it stands to reason that balance would be improved by dancing.
For those of us who worry about osteoporosis, dance can help build bone mass.
One of the most important steps we should follow is to stretch before exercising. Various types of dance include stretching as part of the movements. Stretching improves flexibility, as well.
Where I live, there are many opportunities for seniors to participate in some form of dance. The YMCAs usually offer classes in Zumba, line dancing or some other form of musical exercise.
A community center in Englewood offered tap dancing classes at one time and formed a group of tap dancing senior ladies who performed all over the area.
The rise in popularity of country music in recent years also brought us line dancing. Line dancing doesn’t require a partner and provides a strong workout. Community centers and senior centers may offer line dancing, either as classes or as an afternoon or evening of open dancing. Line dancing is also a good way to meet people and make new friends.
Couples ballroom dancing is another way to exercise those joints and get in shape. Check your local paper for restaurants or clubs that provide music for couples dancing. Where we live, sock hops and rock and roll bands are often featured and take us on a trip down Memory Lane, while our bodies get a good workout.
Any number of clubs offer dancing with dinner or hold special dances throughout the years. Check with your local Elks Lodge, Moose Lodge, Order of the Eagles, or American Legion Club. Call your local Senior Friendship Center. Some private country clubs open their dining rooms to paying non-members and they often feature music for dancing on weekends.
Keep dancing in mind when you look for fun ways to keep in shape. Your muscles and joints will thank you.
