Dancing is Good For Your Physical and Mental Health

Food Network™ Farmstead 10-pc. Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set
Give your cookware collection a modern overhaul with this Food Network Farmstead 10-piece cookware set.

Crocs Classic Girls' Cherry Print Clogs
She'll look adorable in these Crocs Classic cherry print clogs.

The importance of staying healthy is getting a great deal of media coverage. Online video games, social networking, and an abundance of DVDs and TV channels make it easier than ever to find entertainment – and even meet new people – without leaving the home. This is causing a nationwide health problem, and according to government reports three in five are predicted to be overweight by 2050.

Many forms of exercise are viewed as mundane, boring and unappealing whereas dance can be fashionable and fun. There are countless styles to choose from and they all have significant health benefits as they burn calories, increase energy levels, improve circulation, tone muscles and strengthen bones. For example, a half hour salsa session can burn up to 400 calories which is just as much as walking, swimming or cycling for the same period of time. Similarly, in a typical two hour tango session you can find yourself taking more than 2,000 dance steps!

Learning to dance is particularly beneficial for young children. The fun, feel good factor and emotional high that dance gives promotes a positive attitude to exercise which is likely to continue into adult life. Dancing is also great for building confidence and self-esteem not only through the many performance opportunities that dance offers, but also through better posture as children who are comfortable with the way their bodies move tend to feel more confident.

Dancing is a highly sociable activity which makes it a great way to meet new people. When going to the gym you may expect to carry out several solo exercises, whereas dancing is highly interactive and provides an excellent social networking opportunity that does not involve sitting in front of a computer. This is particularly beneficial to children who will quickly make new friends and develop bonds in a secure environment. Similarly, adults will not only learn a new skill but will also quickly develop new friendships and increase their social circle with a group of like-minded individuals.

Wherever you live, there will almost certainly be dance classes in your local area that cater for your ability. Many of them welcome new members with open arms and also have an active social scene.

Petite Croft & Barrow® Denim Capri Pants
Too good to be true! These women's petite capri pants from Croft & Barrow will be an instant favorite.

You may also like...