Posted by on Sep 23, 2014 in Blogs
With so many sports and recreation options available to kids these days, it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Pastimes like hockey, soccer and martial arts are known for developing well-rounded young adults, but have you or your child ever considered ballroom dance? Here are just a few of the benefits of this fun and popular activity.
PHYSICAL HEALTH
Many of us dance for fun, but here’s a secret about moving to a rhythm: it’s exercise! Yep, even couch potatoes can forget they’re breaking a sweat while dancing to an inspiring tune. Regular lessons and practice take dancing and the dancer to whole new levels: improving posture, grace, flexibility, strength, stamina and range of motion. The crisp, precise movements of ballroom dance encourage proper body alignment and balance, all while providing an excellent cardio workout. Professional dancers are some of the strongest, most athletic people in the world and even NFL quarterbacks and other pro athletes include dance in their training.
SOCIALIZATION
Ballroom dance is a social activity! Peers of similar age and skill are taught partner-based moves in a group setting, all of which promotes socialization in children. A child who is shy can emerge from their shell as they learn to express themselves through dance. Many dancers also describe a feeling of being in their own world when they dance, which can help fear of public performance or speaking. In addition to all of these advantages, young ballroom dancers also learn trust, teamwork and co-operation.
EDUCATION
UFC fighter, astronaut, professional dancer… What do these three people have in common? Discipline. It takes practice, study and focus to achieve such great heights and it all starts with a single step. At Elite, it’s a dance step. Mastering simple steps and fundamentals puts children on the track to success, both in dance and other parts of their lives. Regular ballroom dance lessons build discipline and respect in the student, two things that are essential in school, sport or any pursuit.
SELF-ESTEEM
Growing up is full of challenges: kids can feel uncomfortable in their own skin or unable to express themselves. Such problems can hinge on or worsen a child’s lack of self-esteem, leaving a parent feel helpless. If that sounds familiar, why not consider enrolling your child in ballroom dance? Accomplishing a simple series of moves to music can provide immediate gratification and quickly build personal pride. Improved poise and athleticism, new friends, confidence– all boost the confidence of a ballroom dancer. Ballroom dance also provides the student with a form of expression that they might not otherwise have.
Consider lessons for your child at Elite Dance Studios. Our friendly and experienced teachers can handle any level of confidence or experience. Ballroom dance will have your child taking the right steps to success.
