“Dancing is not only fun, it is also a good way to stay physically and mentally fit. Whether it is ballet or ballroom, clogging or jazz, dance helps people of all ages and abilities get in shape and stay in shape. Dancing can provide a great mind-body workout. Researchers are learning that regular physical activity can help keep our body and our brain healthy as we age. Exercise increases the level of brain chemicals that encourage nerve cells to grow. And dancing that requires us to remember dance steps and sequences boosts brainpower by improving memory skills. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., have found that social dancing may help reduce stress, increase energy and improve strength, muscle tone and coordination. Dancing can burn as many calories as walking or riding a bike. Dance 30 minutes continuously and burn 200 to 400 calories, the same as walking, swimming or cycling. Dance can also be a good cardiovascular workout. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute found that consistent social dance exercise leads to a slower heart rate, lower blood pressure and improved cholesterol levels. A dance workout also requires agility and balance, which could be important in reducing falls among older people. The side-to-side motions of many ballroom dances such as mambo and swing strengthen the tibia, fibula and femur and also help prevent or slow the loss of bone mass associated with osteoporosis.”
http://www.delmarvanow.com/article/20081110/LIFESTYLE/811100325/1024
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