Non-Traditional Exercise: The Benefits of Ballroom Dancing

As we launch into 2017, many people are re-prioritizing their diet and exercise plan. Unfortunately, that same group of people quickly gives up on their New Year's Resolutions before the year really even begins.  According to Statistic Brain, only 45% of the people who make resolutions keep them past sixth months, and a whopping 10% feel they were successful at achieving their resolution. At Quick Quick Slow Ballroom Dance Studio, we focus on helping you succeed at living a healthier, more exciting and more social lifestyle. Listed below are examples of how engaging in Ballroom and Latin dancing can benefit you physically and mentally:

1. Physical Fitness: "Ballroom dancing burns calories, can help you manage your weight, improve your cardio endurance, reduce your risk of heart disease and lower your blood pressure, according to the American Council on Exercise" (Livestrong). Weight-bearing exercises are best for improving bone density and reducing your risk of osteoporosis. And of course, participating in any type of dance class improves your balance, flexibility, and overall stamina. A benefit unique to ballroom dancing is, when you have to keep the proper posture in your upper body while your lower body performs the necessary steps, will ultimately strengthen your core. So while you learn and perfect your skill in Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot, Swing, Salsa, Rumba, or Merengue you develop a strong core which is the center to achieving overall physical fitness.
2. Mental Fitness: Exercise in general is known to lift your mood. But often the thought of exercising, getting out of bed, plugging into a machine, and robotically going through an exercise routine is enough to convince you "not today." Before you know it, you've fallen out of your commitment and now you physically and mentally feel worse than if you would've stuck to your resolution. Ballroom is fun, exciting, and mentally challenging as you learn certain dances and their corresponding steps. Because of its stimulating nature, dance will make you want to keep coming back for more. "Dancing provides a number of psychological benefits," according to Livestrong.  "Because it's a fun and enjoyable activity, many people find that it helps improve their mood, self-esteem and confidence, relieves stress and fatigue, and helps them feel more energetic."

Any form of physical exercise is a great way to maintain a healthier lifestyle. However, if you are unable to keep certain resolutions because they are too mundane, do not have accountability, or are not challenging enough mentally, Ballroom and Latin dancing is the change you are looking for. Remember, it is important to practice safety to avoid dance related injuries, so contact us at Quick Quick Slow Ballroom Dance Studio to learn more about the classes we offer.