Dancing a way to get into shape

Health Beat

While dancing seems to be a more recreational activity one does at parties, many say it also is a way to get in shape.

"Dance provides benefits such as improved flexibility, strength [and] cardiovascular stimulation," dance professor Katherine Trammell said.

Dancing also is "good for coordination and balance," Trammell said. "Attention to breath and increased awareness of body-mind connections are particularly significant in dance."

According to a dance Web site at www.learning.gov.ab.ca/
physicaleducationonline, dancing improves one's functional fitness, body image and well-being.

A person's mood tends to improve after dancing, the Web site said.

Sophomore dance major Sara Cart said, "It's aerobic, physical, but also mental, in that it makes you think about what you're saying with your movement."

Dancing also can be a stress reliever, according to www.discoverbellydancing.com. While dancing, "blood flow increases and lactic acid is flushed away. Stressed muscles relax as they are gently exercised, relieving the clenched muscles often seen in our society."

A dancer's body also becomes supple and limber, and many dancers frequently report that pain diminishes in the back and neck areas, according to www.discoverbellydancing.com.

Sophomore dance major Kimberly Gower said, "I love to dance because it gives me a chance to let out any stress or emotions that I'm going through; it's my way of expressing how I feel. Letting out stress is a great way to feel better."

There are different ways for one to get involved in dance.

One can take a class, such as those offered at JMU or from a local studio to learn different styles of dancing.

Belly dancing is becoming a more popular class at many locations, and an average dancer can burn about 300 calories a hour, according to www.discoverbellydancing.com.

"A formal class will give you the most access to feedback from an experienced guide," Trammell said. "[It] helps with injury prevention to have an experienced guide keeping a close eye on the way in which you are approaching the movement."

A class is also great in that it helps keep one motivated because one can get support from a teacher and other students, Trammell said.

Another way to start dancing is to follow a routine. If a person does not want to dance in public, videotapes that teach different aspects of dancing can be bought, according to the dance Web site. However, it does not take formal training to start dancing.

"[If] you just want a good workout to get blood flowing and feel happier, dancing on your own or with friends with your favorite music is great," Trammell said.