Printer-Friendly Logo

Recipe Search

Enter ingredients or recipe title:

Or



More Recipe Search Options

Exercise Description:

From ballet to swing, dancing is enjoyed and revered by all cultures. It is also a great way to get in shape aerobically, strengthen muscles and relieve stress. The best part of all: everyone, regardless of body type or ability, can enjoy and reap the health benefits of dancing. You can dance in your room, at a club or even while sitting in a chair.

To maximize the health benefits derived from dancing, put your whole body and soul into it for at least 20 minutes. Continuing the activity for longer periods will also increase the number of kilojoules you burn.

What Muscles You Work:

Depending on what type of dance you choose, you can work major muscle groups in your back, legs, buttocks and calves. Dancing improves muscle endurance as well as strength and is a great way to maintain cardiovascular fitness.

Tips To Improve Your Dancing:

  • Warm up by walking on the spot for a few minutes. Follow that by stretching muscles in your legs, back and arms. 
  • Keep your abdominal muscles tight, back straight, and let your body loosen up and move to the music. 
  • Optimise your dancing potential by enrolling in an individual or group dance lesson. By following the guidance of an experienced instructor you can learn to utilize your muscles properly with less risk of muscular or skeletal injuries.

How Not To Get Hurt:

Ensure that your dance surface is clean of debris. Remove rugs, toys and shoes. Move objects that you could bump with your legs or back. Stretch and warm up prior to and after dancing to avoid pulling any muscles. Keep your back straight and abdominals tight to avoid back injury. Stop if you feel dizzy, light-headed or fatigued. Always keep water with you and stop to enjoy a cool drink every 15 minutes.

Essential Equipment:

  • Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. 
  • Well-fitting socks constructed of a fabric that keeps moisture away from the skin to prevent skin soreness. 
  • Comfortable trainers or dancing shoes. 
  • Your favourite music. 
  • Water bottle and drink water, and more water.
More About This Subject