Five types of dancing every over 60 should try

Whether you’re in your 60s, 70s or 80s, exercise is imperative. If you want to keep your joints healthy, the pain at bay and your fitness up you need to start moving. But, there are some exercises that have more benefits than improving your physical health…

Like dancing.

Dancing classes are incredibly good for you health, your happiness and your friendships. Swedish scientists found that dancing can significantly improve your cardiovascular health and that it has positive effects on mood including reducing anxiety, decreasing risk of depression and increasing positivity.

So, have you given dancing a go? Don’t worry if you haven’t, it’s not as scary as it sounds. Luckily, there are so many different types of dancing available to over 60s that will have you feeling healthier, being happier and making new friends in no time.

The following five types of dancing are types that every over 60 should try. They are all a little different, but if you’re not accustomed to getting your groove on, then do a little testing before you settle down into one style.

Ballet

Ballet is a gentle but beneficial type of dancing. By isolating muscle groups, it works to improve strength and flexibility. Classical or contemporary ballet are generally practiced to classical music, so if you enjoy the music, there is a good chance you will enjoy the dancing. Dance schools like the Australian Dance Theatre in Adelaide offer beginner level ballet classes, taught by a professional instructor for a small fee.

Jazz

Jazz dancing encompasses a broad range of dance styles. Jazz is all about feeling a rhythm and is often practiced to modern, pop music. It is upbeat, uses the entire body, has both basic and complex moves and is great for cardiovascular health. Dance schools such as The Sydney Dance Company have classes for “absolute beginners” so if you’re less confident in your ability, you can give the basic steps a go.

Latin

Latin dancing is a somewhat intimate style performed with a partner. It comes from Latin America and incorporates whole body movement using a combination of isolated and synchronized moves. The style of music varies but it is great for a fun and enjoyable type of exercise. There are studios all over Australia that offers free introductory classes including the Brisbane Dance Studio.

Ballroom

Ballroom dancing is a type of partner dancing traditionally done with many couples performing at once. It encompasses traditional dances such as the Foxtrot, Cha-Cha and Waltz. It is wonderful for coordination and balance. There are many places that offer ballroom dancing across Australia and it is a style of dancing often enjoyed by over 60s, meaning you can find likeminded friends. The International Dance Studio in Canberra offers classes and entire programs for adult ballroom beginners.

Zumba

Zumba dancing is a fusion of aerobics and dance. Performed to upbeat music in large classes, it is designed to be a whole body workout using dance-based movements to focus on different muscle groups and give you an intense cardio workout. Zumba classes are everywhere and to find a certified class, head to the Zumba website.

All of these dance styles are so much fun with so many benefits to your physical, mental and emotional health. Try each one at least once to find your style and get in to your own groove.

Have you tried dancing before? What styles did you try and did you enjoy them? Tell us about your dance experiences in the comments below…