DANCE LIKE NOBODY’S WATCHING!

It doesn’t matter if you tango, shimmy or twirl, dancing is a total workout – body, mind and soul, says JEREMY KESTENBERG

Studies have shown dancing is a wellbeing “triple threat”. Jeremy Kestenberg, physiotherapist and managing director at Revita Health for Seniors explains why health practitioners are increasingly recommending it in mid-to-later life.

“Dancing is something we encourage, especially if it was part of your younger life, because it’s great to get back to doing what you love,” says Jeremy.

No other activity combines physical exercise (hello, endorphins!) and mental stimulation with the benefits of regular social interaction.

But even if you weren’t much of a dancer before, the best news is everyone can get involved!

Groove for your life

If the thought of dancing makes you self-conscious, remember that dancing is usually a group activity and you’ll be among people of varying abilities. “From a physical perspective, all people improve their strength and endurance with dance but there are other benefits around wellbeing,” Jeremy says.

“When you listen to music you’re fond of, that helps increase enjoyment. It brings back good memories so the benefits are emotional as well.”

Social boost

Whether you’re waltzing at a social event or limbering up for a lively Zumba class, you won’t be the only one busting a move, which brings us to the social component.

Going along to a dance or joining a class can also boost confidence. “Generally a lot of groups will progress through steps so as you get better with more repetition and practise, there’s a sense of achievement too,” Jeremy says.

Anyone with existing health issues such as aches and pains from arthritis or dizziness should see a GP before releasing their inner Ginger Rogers, Jeremy says. “Make sure you’re given the all clear then have a physiotherapist assess your balance because it could be that there are certain moves you can or can’t do.”

For most of us, dancing will have instant benefits, including improved muscle tone and fitness. Another unexpected bonus: dancing is a great way to help with falls prevention.

“When you move in different directions – forwards, sideways and backwards you’re throwing your body off its centre of balance,” says Jeremy.

“If you’re challenging your balance then you will improve your falls prevention.”

Samba to be smarter

Dancing doesn’t just have physical and feel-good benefits. It’s also proven to be great for the brain.

“Dancing has somewhat of a mathematical side to it because you’re remembering steps and patterns along with techniques,” Jeremy says. “From a motor learning perspective, you’re using processes in your brain that tell your muscles to move this way or that. It’s commonly called muscle memory and you’re actually training the brain to do it as you dance.”