Dance Studios London

There’s no doubt about it, as we get older we slow down. A new report from health specialists Bupa highlights that 80 per cent of men and 83 per cent of women aged 65-74 do not get the recommended levels of physical exercise. For over 75s this rises to 91 per cent for men and 94 per cent for women. Physical activity can have a beneficial effect on life expectancy, as older people who carry out more intense physical activity for longer periods tend to live longer than those with more sedentary lifestyles. For many older people, sports and pastimes they enjoyed when young may now be a distant memory. However an option which nearly everyone can continue to enjoy is dance. Dancing is especially beneficial in improving the health and fitness of older people beyond other types of exercise. As well as improving coordination, reaction times, muscle endurance, flexibility, gait and strength - which all reduce the risk of falls in older people - it is proven to be beneficial in the prevention and treatment of conditions as diverse as dementia, arthritis and Parkinson’s disease. It also carries with it a social element which can help improve confidence and reduce isolation. A further reason for taking up dancing is that not only is it a great form of exercise, it’s also fun. That means older people are more likely to keep dancing and enjoy the mental and physical benefits it brings, whatever their level. Click here to access more useful information for the over 50s from in my prime.