Maybe you watch dance shows on TV and wish you could move like the stars, or maybe you want to lose a few pounds but don’t want to do crunches or buy a gym membership. You may be quick to sign up your kids for dance class, but hesitate when it comes to jumping into an adult class for yourself. If you are thinking of trying a dance class, here are 5 great reasons why you should sign yourself up now:

1. Social interaction.

This has always been a benefit of adult dance and group fitness classes, but particularly in the age of COVID-19 and isolation, people are feeling the need for interpersonal activities even more than usual. Dance class is a great way to meet people and to grow together with a common goal -be it learning the choreography or working towards a performance. The nature of a class allows for chances to chat before and after class, as well as watching, learning and performing, which fosters encouragement between students, and opportunities to compliment, praise, (and often times laugh -depending on the situation.) Recreational classes for adults tend to have a relaxed environment where students and instructors progress without taking themselves too seriously. If you’re worried about health protocols, keep in mind that most dance classes distance students in front of a mirror, and adult classes often don’t have choreography with physical touching.

2. Exercise.

You may not count every step or repetition like gym classes, but from warm up to cool down you will move and you will sweat in dance class. Burning calories is a major benefit of adult dance classes, and whether you’re in a fitness-style class with repetitive moves, or learning choreography to practice over and over again -you will exercise! Different genres of dance promote different types of fitness (ex. Ballet and jazz will increase your flexibility. Hip hop and tap promote cardiovascular health.) All genres of dance involve exercise, and will likely increase your cardio capacity, strength and flexibility.

3. Learning keeps your mind sharp.

Every dance class involves choreographed movement. Learning choreography makes your brain work! The cognitive challenge of learning, remembering and performing steps in sequence will be obvious in your first class. It’s also best to practice between classes -even if just in your head- while you listen to the songs. There is no doubt that dance involves thinking and coordinating mind with body. This part may take some time, but the more you practice dance, the more you will improve, and using your brain in this manner will help you to keep sharp as you age. Scientists and medical professionals tell us all the time that learning new skills as an adult helps to prevent cognitive disabilities and Alzheimers disease. Learning to dance is no exception.

4. “Me” time.

Many of us are programmed to give the majority of our time to others, be it parenting, work obligations, family, chores, and various other “adulting” tasks. How often do you take time for yourself? Do something that you want to do, not because you have to do it? We’ve heard experts say that we adults are better partners, parents, and most productive when we are fulfilled as holistic beings first, before committing ourselves to others. Taking a dance class is a great way to carve out time for yourself. Doing this will help with stress reduction and relaxation. It will give you a sense of accomplishment and pride. (This can range from feeling proud for just getting out of the house, to pride in your improving dance skills!)

Signing up for a session, or group of classes is best, as most people tend to stick to their plans when they have prepaid for them, rather than hoping to drop in when they can. We often put others’ needs before our own and are quick to drop the workout or leisure time when someone else demands our time. When you have pre-planned and pre-paid for a class, you are much more likely to attend regularly and take this time for yourself.

5. Self expression.

You may not have thought much about how you express yourself. Are you good with words, maybe creative with your fashion? Dance is an art form, created with the intent to communicate and express feelings and ideas. Music can make us feel strong emotions, and dancing to music can convey powerful sentiments. The act of moving to music is exhilarating and freeing. Audiences can interpret meaning from how a dancer moves. Whether or not you plan to perform for others, you are likely to feel emotion and develop your own style of movement as you progress in your dance classes. Doing so may open the door to more confidence and self-exploration with your artistic self. That sounds pretty great, doesn’t it?

If you are thinking of signing up for an adult dance class, you probably should. For all the reasons above and likely some more of your own… now is a great time to get dancing!

TraXside Studios is an art and dance studio located in the community of Blackie, Alberta that serves Foothills County, High River and Vulcan County. Featuring a fun and eclectic blend of adult dance, yoga and fitness classes, you will be sure to receive all the benefits of a fun and healthy lifestyle.

To try a class call/text Christi at 403-620-1217 or fill out our contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible.