Should you be dancing for your health?

It’s that time of year again – where Strictly Come Dancing graces our television screens once more, and we eagerly tune in to watch this year’s line-up shimmy their way into winning the iconic Glitterball trophy.

As we were seated and waiting to hear that all too familiar theme tune, it got us thinking about the benefits that taking to the dancefloor has.

There are many forms of dancing, from ballroom to barn dancing, Morris dancing to Dancercise – even our failed attempts at the Moonwalk counts as dancing! (Well, we think).

There’s no denying that dancing is one of the more enjoyable ways to get moving and stay fit.

Just like all forms of exercise, dancing has their own whole host of health benefits for people of all ages, shapes and sizes, including:

  • Improved heart and lung health
  • Increased muscular strength, endurance and motor fitness
  • Stronger bones
  • Improved coordination, flexibility and agility
  • Improved balance and spatial awareness
  • Increases confidence
  • Improved mental health and wellbeing
  • Better social skills

How can you get started with dancing?

We know it can be daunting starting something new, but don’t let this deter you from trying out dancing as a new way to get moving.

There are plenty of different places where you can enjoy dancing, like dance schools, community venues, and even from the comfort of your own home. With dancing becoming increasingly popular as a form of exercise, there are now many local places that offer ‘Dancercise’ classes for you to dance yourself fit.

To find your nearest dance class, click here.

Prefer a home workout? There are a whole host of dance exercise videos here for you to follow along and get a sweat on.

Top of Page