Benefits of Dancing and How to Start Doing It

Research indicates when diverse groups of people are brought together in an intergenerational program there are many benefits for all involved. Weddings shouldn't be the only time different generations come together to have fun and let their hair down. Where else can you find grandparents aunts and uncles, sisters and brothers next to best friends and eccentric co-workers? A group of related and unrelated people of all ages - and regardless of ability, all are welcome to join in and celebrate, particularly when it’s time to dance!  This is one of the dancing essays where I will reveal the imporantce of such physical activity as dancing. 

Dancing to music together can be a time for joyous sharing, laughter, creativity, and movement. It’s a physical activity that people of all ages, shapes and sizes can do. It can improve muscle tone, strength, and endurance. It can also improve your mood. Most people love to sing and dance, and when you, the teacher, find creative ideas for turn taking and introducing songs – it makes the activity fun for everyone! There are many forms of dancing, from ball room to disco, to rock and roll. Dancing has always been a part of human culture, rituals and celebrations. It is a great way to express yourself. Dancing has a wide range of physical and mental benefits including:

• 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
• better social skills.

Material/suggested resources

Find a big open space: establishing a dance session in a big open accessible space is important, so as to make it easier for those with mobility and cognitive needs. Ensure chairs are available, and participants have easy access to supportive frames and sturdy walls if necessary. Be mindful of trip hazards.

Who is your audience?

Knowing your audience when dancing is important. Using props such as flowers, music, ribbons and balls can be helpful when engaging participants in the activity as it encourages visual stimulation, conversation and an opportunity to connect with other participants. Different personality traits are associated with musical preference for particular styles and genres. A lot of people tend to like upbeat and conventional music, such as pop and country; as well as energetic and rhythmic music such as dance, soul and rap. Openness has a particularly strong association with reflective and complex music like classical, jazz and blues. Musical preference may also involve perceived “fit” of music to a particular situation.

Which songs should you choose?

Keep in mind you have a wide range of participants to captivate. We don’t want to lose our ageing population by singing and dancing to nursery rhymes every week, nor do we want to lose the interest of our younger population by playing songs they have never heard of before.

Evidence based activity

Music is used widely during workouts, and has seen to motivate and have a positive effect among exercisers. Research has found that there are not only physiological changes when dancing, but emotional responses.

Conclusion 

There are no age limits for dancing, just like for love! Dance as if no one is watching you, feel with every part of your body this strong energy that spreads among the entire dance group!