New Year’s Challenge: Dance Your Way Fit
The secret to making fitness habits stick? Fun! This short dance workout is sure to get your energy up for the day — and keep you coming back for more.
Keep up with the Strong Body, Strong Mind, Strong You Challenge here and on our Facebook page!
As you begin your 2023 get-healthier journey, it’s important to know that exercise doesn’t have to feel like work. In fact, it can feel like a celebration.
Sound too good to be true? Science backs us up on this. According to a 2019 study from the University of Hawaii, dancing has many physical benefits for older adults. The researchers found that the rhythmic movements of dance improve muscular strength, endurance, and balance in people over 60.
When done in a group setting — like a SilverSneakers class — the social part of dancing can even help boost your emotional well-being and mental health.
Dancing falls into the category of cardiovascular exercise, which is any activity that increases your breathing and heart rate and improves blood flow throughout your body. The U.S. Department of Health’s Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans call for 150 minutes (about 2 and a half hours) of moderate-intensity aerobic (aka cardio) exercise each week — and dancing definitely counts toward that goal.
So, if you really enjoy the exercise you’re doing — like a little shake-and-shimmy — you’re much more likely to create a regular cardiovascular exercise habit that sticks.
Get and stay fit with SilverSneakers! Choose from dozens of different Community classes, visit a participating fitness location, or join one of 20+ SilverSneakers LIVE online classes. Check your eligibility here.
How to Use the Energizing Cardio Dance Workout
Not sure you have the right moves? SilverSneakers trainer Shannon Thigpen will guide you through this easy-to-follow, 8-minute dance routine that will have you tapping your toes long after it’s done.
All you need are comfortable shoes and plenty of room to move. Set yourself up near a wall or sturdy piece of furniture for support, if needed.
As always, safety is key. Get your doctor’s OK before beginning a new exercise program. The exercises here may be different or more advanced than those you’ll experience in a SilverSneakers class. If you have a chronic condition (including osteoporosis), balance issues, or injuries, talk to your doctor about how you can exercise safely.
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Love this and want more? Take a SilverSneakers LIVE Zumba or Zumba Gold class!
We offer two variations of this high energy dance party featuring Latin-inspired tunes.
Zumba Gold introduces easy-to-follow Zumba choreography that focuses on balance, range of motion, and coordination. View the schedule and RSVP. Zumba Gold is also offered in-person at participating fitness locations.
Zumba is for intermediate and advanced exercisers who are comfortable with choreography and seeking higher-intensity movements. View the schedule and RSVP.
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SilverSneakers members can go to thousands of gyms and fitness locations across the nation, plus take SilverSneakers LIVE online classes that are designed for seniors of all levels. If you have a Medicare plan, it may include SilverSneakers—at no additional cost. Check your eligibility instantly here.
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