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Posted by Jennifer Gerics Jun 22, 2008 |
I had a great outing today: my family and I went to see a young cousin's dance recital. This was our third year and I have to admit that I love going. It's the beautiful costumes, the toddler ballerinas, and the talented older dancers. The majority of the performers are girls and they have such enthusiasm and energy. Some of the older girls, just like in previous years, "graduated" from the dance school today to pursue college and careers.
Why does the dancing have to end? Do many of the girls continue dancing into adulthood? I know that many women go to exercise classes, sometimes squeezed between sleep and work or work and dinner, but how many women seriously attend adult dance lessons?
If you are considering a new healthy pursuit, why not try an adult ballet class? This dance is probably the least stressful on the joints, it is done at a slower pace than jazz or hip-hop, and it is visually beautiful. Another option is adult tap dancing. From experience I know that this is a bit technically challenging, but it builds balance and coordination.
If these dance forms seem a little daunting---- maybe you never took dance lessons as a kid---- perhaps a yoga or tai chi class is for you. The fluid movements are graceful and they build stamina, balance, and concentration. There are different levels of difficulty.
I just think there is more to fitness than climbing a stairmaster, running on a treadmill, or doing the same old step or aerobics classes. Try adult dance lessons, and maybe you'll be on stage next year, doing a traditional Indian belly dance routine (that group got the loudest cheers from the audience today!)