Ballroom Benefits

We all know it takes two tango. It's takes duel effort of  two dancers to seamlessly glide across the floor in an almost effortless motion. It's passionate. It's beautiful. It's elegant.

We may not all be Ginger Rogers or Fred Astaire but we can all dance to express, connect and benefit our well-being. It's a form of dance that's not age specific and contributes to ones over all health in many ways.

A 21 year study of senior citizens 75 and older (led by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City) found that dancing was the greatest risk reduction activity for dementia and Alzheimer's by 76%. Other activities included tennis, golf, walking, reading and writing amongst many other hobbies.
(for more information on this study visit http://socialdance.stanford.edu/syllabi/smarter.htm)

 Ballroom dancing can also improve cardiovascular and bone health. Everything from up tempo salsa dancing to a slow and steady waltz gets the heart rate going which can help lower blood pressure. The movements of dance can even strengthen bones or prevent bone loss.

Because ballroom dancing is a communal activity, it also has positive effects on mental health as it can increase serotonin levels through social engagement, movement and touch. Many studies will back up what seems to be common knowledge: Being around other people builds social ties, contributes to a positive outlook and builds self-confidence. Joining a ballroom dance class is a great way to accomplish this.

What's your favorite form of dance and how has it benefited you?

Check out our upcoming Ballroom Events!