“Dancing has the ability to make a spirit soar, breathe new life into a tired soul, unleash locked-away creativity, improve your health, and turn sadness into joy,” says the AARP. Fun dances that older women can participate in include salsa dancing, Zumba Gold and ballroom dancing. Engaging in these dances allows you to burn calories, relieve stress, have fun and stay in shape.
Salsa Dancing
Salsa is a form of dance that originated in Cuba. A study published in "Mail Online" revealed that salsa dancing late in life can significantly decrease a woman’s risk of breast cancer. The study monitored over 32,000 women and found that those who regularly participated in salsa dancing in their 60s were 30 percent less likely to develop breast cancer. Salsa dancing encompasses a variety of styles involving movement of the feet, hips and shoulders and shifting of the ribcage.
Zumba Gold
Zumba is a form of dance that promotes high energy and easy-to-follow moves. Zumba Gold is specifically for the baby boomers and modifies the pace and moves to fit the needs of the active older adult who may be working out regularly or just beginning her fit and healthy lifestyle.
Ballroom Dancing
Ballroom dancing is a form of social dance between partners. It is a way to alleviate social isolation, remove the aches and pains of aging, and give you something to enjoy in your spare time. Ballroom dancing is ideal for older women who are married, because it promotes unity with one another, improved health and ongoing engagement with life. A study published in the April 2009 issue of "ScienceDaily" revealed that ballroom dancing has the ability to bring people together in communities and create camaraderie, tolerance and understanding among older adults.
Getting Involved
To become involved in salsa dancing, Zumba Gold or ballroom dancing, locate resources in your community. Salsa and ballroom dancing may be offered in senior centers, parks and community centers. Zumba Gold may be ordered on DVD online from Zumba Fitness, or you may participate in an instructor-led class at a local gym. By getting involved in these dance exercises, you will increase your self-esteem, enhance your physical activity level and feel rejuvenated.
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