Don't dance around the problem: seniors dancing into fitness
Dance acts as therapy for both physical and mental obstacles and helps maintain independence, Ms Barry said
Sunshine Coast
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SENIORS get into the swing of keeping fit with Coredance dance classes.
Coredance owner Sue-Ann Barry has taught dance for 38 years, and now runs dance fitness classes for seniors of all aptitudes.
She said research has proven that dance is a great way to increase wellbeing and encouraged seniors and those with physical impairments to stay active.
"When lifestyles change, certain things become harder to do,” she said, and focusing on keeping bodies agile and strong becomes the "top of the to do list”.
She believes dance is a conversation between body and soul; it acts as therapy for both physical and mental obstacles.
Her routines are carefully structured with low impact dance moves to improve posture, balance and muscle tone, things often lost among lifestyle changes.
"My routines replace a lot of activities that they (seniors) no longer do... like getting out of chairs, picking your feet up and stepping over things. You get the repetition needed for muscle memory without having to do 50 sit-ups or 20 push-ups.”
Long-time Coredance participant Zara Frost noted a significant change in her flexibility, as well as "foot and eye” co-ordination.
"There's a lot going on between your feet and your brain,” she said.
"It's challenging for the mind, and given me so much more flexibility and better posture.”
Mrs Frost, who has worked in aged care, also said adding an aerobic exercise to her weekly routine meant she felt her body was "protected”.
"I've watched people essentially disintegrate and I'm determined not to let that happen to me.”
Boogie on down to Dance Energy Studio Caloundra Monday, Wednesday and Friday for the over 50s classes. Phone Sue-Ann on 54960354 for more details.
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