Do you ever resolve to lose weight and exercise regularly—only to become bored with a stationary bike, rowing machine, or treadmill? Now is the perfect time to try square dancing and discover that exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. It can be fun and beneficial to your health!

Calories

Dancing can burn as many calories as walking, swimming, or biking. One key factor that determines how many calories you burn is the distance you travel. Square dancers wearing pedometers have been known to cover up to five miles in a single evening!

Cardiovascular Conditioning

Regular exercise can lead to a slower heart rate, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol levels. Experts recommend 30 to 40 minutes of continuous activity three or four times a week. The cardiovascular benefits of square dancing depend on how vigorously, how long, and how often you dance. If you attend weekly classes or workshops and also go to dances—you’re already halfway there!

Strong Bones

The side-to-side movements in square dancing strengthen weight-bearing bones such as the tibia, fibula, and femur. This can help prevent or slow the loss of bone mass (osteoporosis).

Rehabilitation

If you’re recovering from heart or knee surgery, movement is often a key part of the healing process. Square dancing offers a gentle, low-impact alternative to aerobic dance or jogging that can support rehabilitation.

Sociability

Unlike solitary workouts, dancing offers a strong social component. It’s a great way to build friendships, boost self-esteem, and maintain a positive outlook. The companionship square dancing provides is a powerful antidote to depression and loneliness. Plus, laughter is good for your immune system—laughing 10 times a day helps maintain high enough macrolyte levels to ward off most viruses and infections!

Memory

Keeping up with dance calls keeps your mind sharp, potentially helping to stave off age-related memory decline. It’s exercise for both body and brain! 

So, if you’re looking for a fun, engaging, and social way to stay healthy, square dancing might be just what you need. Get moving, meet new people, and dance for the health of it!