Dance is a form of exercise that encompasses many styles; from ballet to ballroom ; from jazz to the jitterbug; from hip-hop to the highland fling; from the rhumba to rock’n’roll.  You can move to all types of music, and have heaps of fun at the same time.  Always make sure the exercise you are doing is safe, enjoyable and designed to meet your personal goals.

Pros:

  1. Relatively low impact (in most cases)

  2. Social interaction

  3. Workout for your whole body, including your brain

  4. Benefits core control, posture and cardio fitness

  5. Increased muscle tone and fitness

  6. Increased stamina and strength

  7. Helps with balance and coordination

  8. Can be done anywhere – in your loungeroom, in a dance class, or out on the town

Cons:

  1. May be expensive – lessons, costumes/shoes

  2. May be high impact, depending on the style of dance

  3. Risk of injury

  4. Potential stress points are shoulders and knees from twisting 

  5. May be frustrating if you lack co-ordination

Those who would benefit:

  1. Anyone who wishes to improve their fitness

  2. Anyone who wishes to improve their core control and posture

Those who may not benefit:

  1. Not beneficial if you have joint, bone or ligament problems – see your medical practitioner before starting any exercise program

  2. Those who don't feel comfortable exercising with others, although you can dance in the privacy of your own home if you want.