Dance regulars at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studios enjoy camaraderie, fun and a healthy workout, even in pandemic times. using muscles you haven’t used before and

Aren’t we all striving to become healthier each year? It seems like there are always new work outs emerging – kickboxing, Bokwat, dance fitness, aerial fitness, barre – or maybe you are looking for a more traditional way to get in shape.

Ballroom dancing is something that has been around for years.  People who haven’t tried ballroom dancing might not realize what a good workout it can be.

For those who do dance, just ask them. They will tell you it rivals any boot camp or gym workout. For example, look at how winded those dancers are after a less than two-minute dance routine on “Dancing with the Stars”!

So why is ballroom dancing so good for you? Along with burning calories and boosting your mood, you can gain muscle control and coordination. Your endurance and stamina will improve. That’s important because endurance will allow you to work your muscles hard for a longer period of time without becoming so tired.  Strength, flexibility and balance will all improve.

Many dances require a tremendous amount of leg and core strength, which you can build over time. You might end up using muscles you haven’t used before and didn’t know you have!

Dancing is also a weight-bearing activity, which helps to build bones and tone your body. Dancing can reduce your stress while increasing your energy. This can certainly add to a more positive outlook on life and sense of well being. It also helps a person build confidence.

Dancing is also healthy for your brain! When you are pushed to remember dance steps and sequences, you are boosting your memory skills.

Dancing is unique because it provides the benefits of aerobic exercise while it also allows social activity. It’s for people of all ages and abilities.

You can vary your level of exertion pretty easily. Just getting started or just getting back into it? Then start slowly. When you’re ready to take it up a level, add some turns, dips or more complicated moves.

The more energy you exert, the more vigorous your workout will be.

Maybe it’s time to get back to basics with your workout. Check out how much fun and how good for you dancing can be.

Sandro Virag is a partner and instructor at Hilton Head Ballroom Dance Studio of Hilton Head, located in Bluffton at Seaquins Ballroom. hiltonheadballroom.com