Dance and Physical Well-Being
Dance has had a transformative impact on my physical and mental health. As someone who finds the
conventional gym setting monotonous, dance has become my preferred way to stay active. It seamlessly
integrates cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination—making
it a comprehensive, full-body workout that feels more like joyful play than tedious exercise.
Engaging in dance regularly has improved my posture, enhanced my stamina, and strengthened my core
and muscle tone. Whether it's a high-energy Zumba class or a graceful contemporary routine, dance
challenges different muscle groups and keeps the body agile. A study by Keogh and Kilding (2015)
supports this, noting that dance can be as effective as traditional aerobic exercises in improving physical
fitness, particularly among adults.
Beyond its physical benefits, dance has a profound influence on mental well-being. Movement to music
can help reduce cortisol levels (the stress hormone), elevate mood, and promote emotional release
(Quiroga Murcia et al., 2010). Every session leaves me with a sense of accomplishment, a boost of
energy, and a clearer mind—an experience that few other workouts offer with such emotional
resonance.
What I love most is that dance is inclusive. From ballet to hip-hop, ballroom to folk, there is a style for
every personality and fitness level. It welcomes beginners and professionals alike, and it encourages
consistent movement rather than perfection. As noted by American Council on Exercise (ACE), dance-
based fitness also improves adherence to exercise because it emphasizes enjoyment and social
interaction (Porcari et al., 2015).
Dancing reminds me that self-care through movement doesn’t have to be boring, rigid, or painful. It’s a
rhythmic celebration of life, energy, and the body’s capacity to move. It teaches me to treat fitness not
as a punishment, but as a gift.
References:
Keogh, J. W. L., & Kilding, A. E. (2015). Physical benefits of dancing for healthy older adults: A
review. Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 23(3), 464–476.
https://doi.org/10.1123/japa.2014-0054
Quiroga Murcia, J. A., Kreutz, G., Clift, S., & Bongard, S. (2010). Shall we dance? An exploration of
the perceived benefits of dancing on well-being. Arts & Health, 2(2), 149–163.
https://doi.org/10.1080/17533010903488582
Porcari, J., Foster, C., Cress, M., & Anders, M. (2015). Zumba® Fitness: Is the “fitness-party” a
good workout? American Council on Exercise (ACE) FitnessMatters.