Aussie Baby Boomers dance onto Japanese stage for world competition

Tassie-based Baby Boomers are preparing to show off their moves as they dance their way onto a Japanese stage for a world competition.

Becoming true performers, the group of women all over the age of 50, have drawn on life experiences to choreograph their own routine for Japan’s World Gold Theatre Festival, the ABC reports.

Involved in the Mature Artist Dance Experience (MADE), the proud Tasmanians are taking a stand against the ageing process, using dance as a way to keep both their bodies and minds active.

Improving their health in general, the women are keeping fit, while having fun and making new friends.

Although many don’t have any dancing experience and have never stepped onto a stage, MADE has changed the way they view ageing.

Embracing life to the fullest, 70-year-old Sue Pickard told the ABC she has benefitted greatly since joining the dance company 10 years ago.

“This ageing process is the pits,” she said. “My balance has improved considerably, and you have to use your brain as well as all your muscles.”

Whether it’s cutting down on junk food or exercising, keeping your health in check as a Baby Boomer is incredibly important.

Read more: From health to social benefits: The pros of staying active as a Boomer

Roger Simkin, 63, recently spoke to Starts at 60 about the benefits of staying active as he prepares to take part in his eighth marathon.

The former footballer said for him, joining a running group was a way of making friends, however, it quickly developed into a new passion.

“I didn’t necessarily join to run a marathon, I was just mixing with the group,” he said. “One thing led to another and in 2010, I ran my first marathon. It’s become regular marathons and other events since then.”

Although he acknowledges many Boomers wouldn’t want to run marathons, he said fear shouldn’t stop them from having a go at other forms of physical activity and exercise.

“Just keep on persisting, keep on turning up. Just keep on trying,” he recommended. “It’s pretty amazing what the human body can do if you’re prepared to give it a good go.”

From his experience in marathon running, help can always be given to people who want to participate. Whether it’s adjusting their medication, speaking to their GP or health professional, getting them to wear different shoes or even trying different exercise techniques, there’s plenty that can be done if people want to get involved or to have a go at something new.

What do you do to keep active? Would you ever join a dancing group?