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Swaying to the Music
Dancing for Fitness and Fun
By Charlene Torkelson, Fitness Expert
Dancing is just about everywhere these days. Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance are just a few of the many reality shows that make a viewer want to get up and tap a toe or two. Not only is dancing great exercise, but dancing with your spouse is a fabulous way to reconnect romantically and socially. It is an activity and fitness format for everyone – young, old and even pregnant. Yes, partner dancing or ballroom is a wonderful low-impact aerobic exercise for moms-to-be.
One of the best features of ballroom dancing is that it brings a lifetime of pleasure and enjoyment. Whether you are 5 or 85, ballroom dancing is a way to keep fit and have fun. It is also gender friendly – enjoyed by both men and women alike. Unlike the majority of fitness programs, it is one you can do with your spouse and your children. It connects the sexes and the generations with a love of movement and music. Many can nostalgically remember rolling up the living room rug and trying a few steps with Grandpa or Grandma.
Ballroom is a fitness activity a beginner mom-to-be dancer could certainly start in her first trimester – or her third trimester. It is not something that is restricted and can be an enjoyable activity right up to the first labor pain. It is also relaxing – the music, the gentle sways and a night out with your spouse. What could be better?
The rhythm dances are generally danced in one spot on the floor. These include the very popular Latin dances such as the Salsa, Rumba, Cha Cha, Samba, Merengue and Mambo. Latin dances have a background in Caribbean and Central or South American culture and music. The beat of the music creates a movement in the body that mimics the percussion sounds called Cuban or Latin motion. The rhythm dance group also includes the energetic Swing or Jive. There are many variations of the Swing that have been popular throughout the decades such as Rock and Roll, West Coast, Hustle and even Country Swing. It all depends on the music and tempo to which you are moving.
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