1. Make Friends
If you want the opportunity to meet new people, the dance studio is definitely the place to start. You will have the chance to meet like-minded people who enjoy a similar hobby…dancing! The social interaction between you and your classmates at dance class is something to look forward to on a weekly basis. You might be shy at first, but the motivation and cheer from each other will have you joining in and dancing around in no time.
2. Lose Weight
Just like going to the gym, coming to a dance class has its physical benefits. Of course like any other fitness regime it all depends on your frequency and diet, but adding that additional 1 – 4 hours a week will do your body good. It also all depends on your personality. While some enjoy running on a treadmill at the gym, we find it easier ‘running’ around the dance studio while listening to great music.
3. Reduce Stress
Dancing enhances your mood! Every time you step onto the dance floor your body releases endorphins. If you did not know, endorphins produce a feeling of euphoria and diminishes our perception of pain. Just stepping into a dance class will recharge you for the week to come.
4. Improve Balance
Challenge your body laterally & rotationally. Dance requires you to be physically aware of your body at all times; from balancing on one leg in attitude to being able to do pirouettes. Not only will your posture improve, but so will your balance.
5. Cardio Benefit
The additional exercise added to your schedule with your weekly dance class(es) – your heart will thank you for that. We need that regular cardio workout to keep us fit and healthy. We are in need of 1-2.5 hours vigorous exercise, or 2.5-5 hours of moderate exercise, per week. So be sure to pop in for that additional dance class to get your heart pumping.
6. Improve Flexibility
The typical question all dancers are asked on a regular basis is: “Can you do the splits”. In most cases the answer is yes. Most dance styles require a degree of mobility and flexibility, and if it comes to Acro that degree is high! But just by implementing basic stretches before and after class you will start to see improvements week by week.
7. Increase Muscle Tone
We might not be gym buffs but dancers are toned! You will find most dancers have great muscles in their legs & glutes. Our Break dancers and Acrobats particularly develop strong shoulders for all their tricks, and our Latin & Ballet dancers have well defined calves either from wearing heels or being in relevés.
8. Boost Your Memory
There have been multiple studies proving the benefits of dance in preventing dementia. Although dance has a physical expression, there is so much more going on in your brain while dancing. You need to focus on your body and the different movements and balance required, while simultaneously recalling the steps and routines that need to be followed. That constant recall of movements keeps the synapses firing at all times.
9. More Confidence
“All the world’s a stage”. Set dancers on a stage and see them shine. Not all dancers are born performers but it inevitably gets ingrained into you. It starts off in class while you are learning your new steps and skills, and as you are able to complete and achieve these skills you feel more confident and accomplished. It is not as simple as placing one foot in front of the other, there is a ton of coordination that goes into it. Thereafter, you want to show what you are able to do to your family and friends and jump at any opportunity to show your skills off.
10. Ease Depression
Studies have found that people with depression who attended an upbeat dance class showed fewer depression symptoms. The physical and mental release you have during a dance class helps you to escape and get set free from your current surroundings. We don’t just dance for the physical benefit, but to modify our emotional state. “A recent descriptive systematic review included eight well-controlled studies, all of which demonstrated changes in brain structure following dance intervention.” During lockdown we are all feeling some form of depression and anxiety. Why not step into a dance class and feel that release.