There's no lack of dance shows on TV these days, and because of it there's been a resurgence of dance and a growth in its popularity.
So much, that according to a recent article by the American Council on Exercise, DanceSport, a competitive style of dance is recognized by the International Olympic Committee and could become a medal sport by 2016.
OK, we know it's popular, but it's also one heck of a workout. Dance by definition is a successive group of rhythmical steps or bodily motions, or both, usually executed to music. In other words, it's choreographed exercise.
Bob and Greta Ripley, who have been taking dance lessons for seven years, average about three-five hours of dance a week, and understand its physical benefits.
"Dance is just another way to keep moving and active. It adds variety to my fitness routine and helps work on balance. It definitely helps with body image," Greta said.
Bob reinforces that idea. He believes "not only is dancing exercise but dancing motivates me to exercise; the more flexibility, balance, core strength and cardiovascular fitness I have the better I can dance."
If you need more convincing, look to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. It reports that dance will lower coronary heart disease, build and increase stamina, strengthen and tone muscles, as well as relieve stress and improve mood. For more visit www.nhlbi.nih.gov/.
Another plus regarding dance is that it fits the lifetime fitness model. You don't need fancy equipment or teammates. You need a floor, a beat and, if preferred, a partner, and it can be done anywhere. You can participate in dance for life.
Katie Von Ah, owner and director of Studio 5678 in Dubuque, instructs kids in dance from ages 3-18. Dance is a great way to instill an exercise habit in children.
"No matter how and when they dance they are increasing their fitness. They can dance at any age, too, it's not just for children," Von Ah said.
Dance addresses all fitness components to some degree, and undoubtedly focuses on flexibility. This is evident in the studio.
"In dance it's important to have flexibility; we do splits, kicks and leaps that require flexibility," Von Ah said.
Along with that, any dancer can attest to the fact that dance also will increase your strength, power and cardiorespiratory endurance. It's a well-rounded fitness activity for all ages and levels.
Dance isn't only about the physical fitness; there are social and psychological benefits as well. Those benefits are undeniable to the Ripleys.
"It's time spent having fun, we have to work together, and music improves your mood and can stimulate memories of past fun times" and "adds some romance to a relationship," Greta said.
If that doesn't convince you to hit the floor, this might: Research shows that dance can burn 250-540 calories an hour.
Watching the dancing shows on TV is fun, but participating can be just as fun and of course more beneficial.
Romagna is an instructor in the Department of Health, Wellness and Recreation at the University of Dubuque, and owner of Natural Fit Inc. Contact Jim at fit@jimromagna.com.
