Physical exercise is important among older adults to keep their body fit and firm. One of many physical exercises that can be performed by the elderly is dancing. And according to a new study, older people who participate in dance hobbies tend to be physically fit and mentally healthy.

Dancing Is more than an Art

Most people view the act of dancing as an activity to entertain others. But for dancers who understand its meaning, a dance is a performance that consists of sequences of human movement that represent emotions or messages through symbolic formations. Ballet is a type of dance usually combined with aesthetic elements, such as costumes and stage scenes. And according to researchers in Australia, a dance like ballet can be very helpful to the well-being of older adults.

"The physical benefits of movement and dance on ageing bodies is well documented and our project really re-enforces these findings, however, additionally highlights the joy and benefits social connections in dance can bring to people's lives," stated Professor Gene Moyle, a performance psychologist from the Creative Industries Facility at Queensland University of Technology.

Their project involved 10 Ballet for Seniors classes for three months, which was initiated in 2017, with an aim to understand the positive and negative experiences of participants. The Ballet for Seniors is a gentle dance class specially tailored for seniors and focuses on improving strength, memory, and mobility.

Within three months, from July 2017 to October 2017, the participants were able to gain two major benefits – strong motivation and positive well-being.

With regard to strong motivation, because of their age, the participants needed to determine certain factors that would want them to participate in ballet classes. The researchers found that participants who were a part of a group that shares similar interests were likely to be motivated to continue participation. Participants who also belong to a group of the same age tend to feel emotionally comfortable in activities. Also, participants were likely to join a physical activity if it was tailored for them.

Also, because participants were very interested in the ballet class, the constant physical activity led to better physical and mental outcomes -- thus, a positive well-being. The researchers found that the participants had more energy, and were more fit, more aware of their posture, more flexible, and more satisfied. The participants were also happier when facing challenges in sequences and movements.

With five as the highest score in the survey, the ballet classes received feedback that reflected the well-being of the participants, including:

- 3.9 average score for improved self-esteem, while those who disagreed gave the score 3.75.

- 3.7 average score for improved coping strategies, while those who disagreed gave the score 3.57.

- 4.5 average score for improved social well-being, while those who disagreed gave the score 4.13.

- 4.8 average score for improved physical well-being, while those who disagreed gave the score 4.5.

"We weren't surprised by the research findings strongly indicating that ballet participation is considered to be a highly pleasurable activity for active older adults, we were pleasantly surprised by the flow on effects of that. It found that ballet participation may contribute to positive outcomes across various health and wellbeing categories and promotes a general feeling of well-being," said Felicity Mandile, director of Strategy and Global Engagement at Queensland Ballet.

The ballet classes for seniors are still ongoing every week. In addition, Queensland also offers a specialized dance class for people with Parkinson's disease.

Overall Benefits of Dancing

For those who are planning to create a workout course with dancing at its core, there are many kinds of dance available. And any kind of dance, such as ballroom, modern or just plain dance at home, may be used for exercising. This is because any kind of dance can provide the following positive effects on the mind and body:

- Improves the cardiovascular and respiratory systems: The sequences of various body movements help train both the heart and lungs.

- Better motor fitness and coordination: For each sequence, the body needs to be precise in following the right position and posture. A consistent dance habit can enhance hand-and-eye coordination and motor skills.

- Increased muscle endurance: Each dance step requires the muscles to move to create the desired movement. When the muscles in the hands, legs, arms, and feet are constantly used in dancing, they gain an increase in endurance, fitness, and strength, which benefits the person.

- Stronger bones: Just like muscles, the bones also gain benefit from consistent exercise. Individuals who are consistent with their physical activity have a reduced risk of certain bone diseases, such as osteoporosis.

- Positive mental status: Dancing also positively affects the mind of the person. Similar to other workout routines, dancing can trigger the production of brain chemicals that lift the mood of the person. And consistent dancing may prevent anxiety and depression.

[메디컬리포트=Ralph Chen 기자]