Did you know International Dance Day is April 29? Well now you do, so grab those tap shoes, pop some music on and let’s bust a move or two! However if you’re not so dance savvy in your own time then never fear as there’s a multitude of classes available for the elderly across the country, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate or advanced dancer.
Why do we Dance?
Dancing is fantastic form of exercise and it’s also plenty of fun! Dancing, particularly for the elderly, has many benefits which include:
- Good for the body – As with any exercise, dance is fantastic for the heart. It’s a cardiovascular workout but one you can enjoy more and forget you’re even working out! Dancing is also great for the bones, particularly anyone suffering from Osteoporosis.
- Increases Strength – Salsa according to studies has known to increase co-ordination and strength particularly among the elderly and it’s a form of dance which can easily be taken uo if you’re over 65.
- Eases and Prevents Stiffness – Regular dance activity can ease any joint or muscles stiffness elderly people may suffer from. Like with many forms of exercise it trains muscles and improves movement, so another great reason to take up a dance
- Stress No More – Dance has known to provide stress relief as well as lowering depression levels.
- Interaction – Dance classes are a great opportunity for the elderly to meet with other like minded dancers and make new friends. It’s exercise with socialise!
How Can I Get Started?
As previously mentioned there are hundreds of dance classes and sessions run across the country for elderly people. If you’re looking to get involved and start dancing, whatever the reasons, then all you need to do is search for classes in your local area.
Often council websites can provide these details and also make sure you check out what’s on at gyms and community centres near you as these are certain to offer classes.
International Dance Day?
International Dance Day was founded in 1982, by the Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITL). The date was chosen to celebrate the birthday of Jean-Georges Noverre, who is credited with he creation of modern ballet.
The ITL have set-out the following goals for International Dance Day:
- To promote dance in all its forms across the world.
- To enjoy dance in all its forms for its own sake.
- To make people aware of the value of dance in all its forms.
- To share the joy of dance with others.
- To enable the dance community to promote their work on a broad scale, so that governments and opinion leaders are aware of the value and importance of dance in all its forms and support it.
So since it is International Dance Day this Saturday, will you be looking to take up dance? We’d love to hear if you’re dancing though our Facebook and Twitter pages.
